California bans disposable e-cigarettes to curb landfill battery fires

Governor Gavin Newsom approved legislation that bans the retail sale of disposable vaping devices across California, citing the danger of lithium-battery fires in landfills and recycling centers. Violators face a $500 penalty for the first breach and up to $2,000 for subsequent offenses. The bill, championed by Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin, highlights the difficulty of removing batteries from these products, which can ignite and endanger waste-facility workers.

Health, anti-smoking and environmental organizations backed the law, arguing it prevents costly clean-up expenses and protects natural resources. Business groups, including the California Chamber of Commerce and a convenience-store alliance, criticized the ban, warning it could drive users toward illegal products. Republican lawmakers also opposed the measure, suggesting broader climate and pollution issues deserve priority.