The recent increase in Iowa’s unemployment rate to 3.1% in November, coupled with a rise in the state’s labor force participation rate to 66.3%, has sparked concerns and discussions about the state’s economic stability. Iowa Workforce Development noted that the influx of new workers is a positive sign for the state’s economic growth, especially as employers currently have over 50,000 open positions to fill. Additionally, the state saw an increase in the number of unemployed Iowans in November, reaching 53,000 compared to 51,000 in October.
Simultaneously, a group of Iowa retailers, distributors, and e-cigarette manufacturers have filed a lawsuit to block enforcement of a new state law that restricts vape sales. The law, supported by tobacco companies, mandates the sale of only state-approved vape products listed on a registry vetted by the FDA. Retailers argue that this restriction would severely limit vape sales in Iowa to the benefit of big tobacco companies and could force many businesses to shut down or incur penalties. The plaintiffs argue that the law violates the U.S. Constitution by infringing on FDA’s exclusive authority to enforce drug safety mandates.
The lawsuit also raises concerns about the potential public health impact of removing e-cigarette products that have helped smokers quit cigarettes. With thousands of e-cigarette products being sold in Iowa without proper FDA authorization, the industry group and retailers are seeking an injunction against the law’s enforcement. The lawsuit seeks to block the law and declares it unconstitutional.
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