Colorado’s alternative nicotine industry is facing major regulatory changes in 2026, with a sweeping local flavor ban now in effect and ongoing legal battles challenging the policy. Harm-reduction advocates are urging retailers, consumers, and industry supporters to get involved through the state’s Request to Speak (RTS) system. 

Advocacy groups are offering to assist members of the industry by handling RTS sign-ins on their behalf using a standard authorization form. 

 

Denver flavor ban now in effect 

 

As of January 1, 2026, a strict ban on the sale of flavored tobacco and nicotine vaping products is in force in Denver, following a city council ordinance and subsequent voter approval. 

The ban includes: 

• Menthol 
• Mint 
• Fruit flavors 
• Dessert and sweet flavors 
• Other non-tobacco flavored nicotine products 

Retailers found in violation of the ordinance face fines of $1,000 per offense. 

This policy has significantly reshaped the local market, forcing many retailers to remove popular products from shelves and raising concerns about consumer access, cross-border purchasing, and the growth of unregulated markets. 

 

Legal challenges underway 

 

The ban has not gone unchallenged. The Rocky Mountain Smoke Free Alliance has filed a lawsuit against the City of Denver, arguing that the ordinance exceeds the city’s authority and harms small businesses while limiting access to reduced-risk alternatives. 

The outcome of this case could have broader implications for local flavor bans across Colorado and potentially other states. 

 

RTS authorization for industry members 

 

Advocacy group The Rocky Mountain Smoke Free Alliance, are encouraging industry members to participate in the legislative process through the RTS system. 

By completing the authorization and consent form, these organizations can: 

• Create and manage RTS accounts on your behalf 
• Register positions in support of or opposition to legislation 
• Help coordinate industry responses to harmful policies 

 

Participants should be aware: 

• RTS entries may be publicly visible. 
• Written testimony requires separate approval. 
• Authorization can be revoked at any time by written notice. 

Click the link here to fill out the RTS Form. 

 

Why participation matters 

 

Local bans like the one in Denver often set the tone for future statewide legislation. When industry members and adult consumers participate in the legislative process, it helps lawmakers understand the real-world impact of these policies. 

If you support harm reduction, small businesses, and adult access to alternatives, signing the RTS authorization form is one of the most direct ways to make your voice heard in Colorado’s evolving regulatory landscape.