New York directs Tax and Finance to build “Vapor Products” registry; products not listed deemed illegal

Key Points

• Gov. Kathy Hochul plans a crackdown on illegal flavored vapes through a legal-product registry

• New York’s Department of Taxation and Finance is directed to create a “Vapor Products” registry; non-listed products are illegal

• The text references 2020 laws banning sales of flavored e-cigarettes popular with young people

• The governor’s office says many flavored vapes are mainly manufactured in China and marketed to children

• Former NYC Sheriff Edgar Domenech supports the move and references enforcement strategies under then-Mayor Mike Bloomberg

2Firsts, January 20, 2026

According to NY Post, New York Gov. Kathy Hochul is vowing a crackdown on illegal flavored vapes by creating a registry of legal products to help enforcement identify contraband.

The content states that despite being banned in New York and lacking U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval, Hochul estimates that as much as 99% of current vape products are flavored. Hochul directed the state Department of Taxation and Finance to create a “Vapor Products” registry identifying vapor products that may be legally sold; products not on the list would be deemed illegal.

The content says the registry — used in more than a dozen other states — is intended to give law enforcement clarity to quickly identify contraband, shut down criminal networks, protect children, and level the playing field for legitimate retailers. Hochul is quoted in her 2026 State of the State policy book saying the actions will “minimize and prevent the illegal and dangerous sale of harmful vape products to New Yorkers.”

The content also notes that the NYC Sheriff’s Office and the NYPD, during their crackdown on illegal cannabis shops, found some illicit operators were also selling banned flavored vapes. It cites out-of-state examples to argue that seizing illegal vape products can also lead to uncovering other criminal activity.

Former New York City Sheriff Edgar Domenech voiced support for Hochul’s move and referenced enforcement strategies targeting illegal cigarette and tobacco sales under then-Mayor Mike Bloomberg.

Image source: NY Post