Florida Senator Introduces Act to Crack Down on Dangerous Vape Loopholes

On December 1st, Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) announced the introduction of the Destruction of Hazardous Imports Act. Led by Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) in the House, the bill cracks down on the re-Importation of products that had been previously rejected by the Food and Drug Administration as harmful. In addition to streamlining the destruction process, this bill expands the authority of the Secretary of Health and Human Services to destroy any previously FDA-regulated product that presents a public health risk, and will close certain loopholes that allow importers to “port shop” or attempt re-entry of dangerous products. 

In a statement, Senator Rick Scott said, “Americans should never be put at risk because bad actors, especially from companies in Communist China or other adversarial nations, continuously attempt to sneak dangerous and contaminated food and other products back into our country after being rejected. My bill makes clear that if the FDA says a product is too hazardous for American families, it will not be allowed back into our markets under any circumstances. This gives federal authorities the tools they need to destroy these shipments quickly and keep our supply chain and families safe. I’m proud to lead this effort with my colleagues in the House to protect public health and hold dangerous importers accountable.”

Since President Trump’s inauguration, the administration has been working on removing illegal Chinese vapes flooding the U.S. market. Operation Vape Trail by the DEA seized 2.3 million illicit vapes, $3.5 million, and 115 firearms in 2025. In addition, Congress approved a new $200 million enforcement investment that requires the FDA to dedicate the funds to removing illegal vape products. The message is clear: China shouldn’t profit from loopholes, nor should it allow them to addict our children.