MUSKEGON COUNTY, MI - Vaping is becoming increasingly popular among young people, but in Muskegon County it's illegal for minors to possess e-cigarettes and other vapor products.
Beginning in March, the Muskegon County Sheriff's Office will begin sweeps of retailers to make sure they are not violating the county ordinance that prohibits vapor product sales to minors.
Checks for compliance with laws outlawing the sale of cigarettes and other nicotine products to minors have already been routinely conducted in Muskegon County since 2013. Vape shops and other retailers selling vapor products will be added to the list of shops visited by minors participating in the undercover compliance checks.
The Muskegon County Board of Commissioners in December 2015 outlawed the sale of vapor products to minors as well as the possession of such products by minors. The outlawed items include all "noncombustible products" - such as e-cigarettes -- that "can be used" to produce vapor from nicotine in liquid or other forms.
Violation of the ordinance is a civil infraction punishable by a fine of up to $50 for the first offense. It becomes a misdemeanor criminal offense with third and subsequent infractions.
Public Health Muskegon County will be assisting the office of Sheriff Michael Poulin with the compliance checks.