Lawmakers in the U.S. state of Kansas are advancing a new piece of legislation that could significantly reshape the state’s vaping regulatory framework. The proposal, Senate Bill 355 (SB 355), would require e-cigarette manufacturers—and potentially distributors as well—to obtain state-issued licenses, extending oversight beyond the retail level.

Key Takeaways

• Country/Region: Kansas, United States
• Legislative status: Senate committee hearing held on January 27
• Core proposal: Require e-cigarette manufacturers (with references to manufacturers and distributors) to obtain state licenses
• Supporters’ argument: Strengthen safety oversight and block “illegal, unregulated” Chinese-made vape products
• Opposition concerns: Higher compliance costs could push small, local vape shops out of the market

What SB 355 Proposes

According to KSNT, the Kansas Legislature is considering SB 355 as a way to extend vaping regulation further upstream in the supply chain. On January 27, a Kansas Senate committee held a hearing on the bill, which would require vape manufacturers to be licensed by the state.

Currently, Kansas already requires retail stores to obtain licenses in order to sell vaping products. SB 355 would go a step further by placing licensing requirements on manufacturers—and possibly distributors—aiming to improve traceability, product safety, and regulatory enforcement.

Supporters’ Perspective

Republican lawmakers backing SB 355 argue that expanding licensing requirements would give the state stronger tools to control product origins and mitigate safety risks.

During the hearing, supporter Brian Posler stated that the bill would help Kansas “close the door” to what he described as unsafe, illegal, and unregulated Chinese e-cigarette products entering the local market. He also noted that, in the absence of comprehensive federal action, state-level regulation is often the most practical option available.

Concerns From Small Businesses

Opponents of the bill warned of potential unintended consequences. Byron McNary, owner of vape shop McVapour, testified that if the legislation effectively allows large companies to use regulation as a barrier to entry, SB 355 could have serious structural impacts on the industry.

McNary cautioned that higher compliance costs and licensing burdens could force smaller vape shops out of business, reducing competition and harming local retailers.

Next Steps

The Senate committee is expected to vote on SB 355. If approved, the bill would move to the full Kansas Senate for further debate and consideration.

Source note: This article is an English translation/adaptation of the provided Chinese summary, referencing 2Firsts (Jan 28, 2026) and KSNT reporting.