SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN (WKZO AM/FM) — After several have died from mysterious illnesses related to vaping, state regulators are issuing new measures to halt the sale of marijuana vaping products for now.
On Friday, November 22nd the state marijuana regulatory agency issued new emergency rules banning the use of vitamin E acetate for marijuana concentrates used in vaping.
The Centers for Disease Control says they believe Vitamin E acetate in vaping has been responsible for 47 deaths and 2,290 illnesses nationwide, including one death in Michigan.
State health officials say that they will now inspect processing facilities atleast twice each month to prevent the use of Vitamin E Acetate and other hazardous substances in vaping products. They will also test for the substance among current stocks in the market at six statewide testing facilities.
The state cannibas industry has been largely supportive of the move. The Michigan Cannabis Industry Association announced that they are in favor of the new rules to ensure consumer safety. They represent nearly 200 licensed medical pot businesses in Michigan.
Regulators say that while all products currently on shelves must be tested, the new rules do not fully apply to new merchandise that has not yet reached market.
