New Tax Starts Tuesday In Wisconsin

MADISON, WI — The Wisconsin Department of Revenue will begin collecting an excise tax on vapor products in Wisconsin. A "vapor product" is defined as a noncombustible substance that produces vapor or aerosol meant for inhalation.

The tax rate is 5 cents per milliliter of liquid or other substance heated to produce vapor for inhalation, regardless of whether the liquid or other substance contains nicotine.

Wisconsin's "vape tax" was a product of a state budget battle between Democratic Gov. Tony Evers and Republicans who control both the state Assembly and Senate. Evers wanted a higher rate, with legislative Republicans favoring a lower rate.

According to a Wisconsin State Journal report, on a 30-milliliter bottle of e-cigarette fluid costing $19.99, Wisconsin’s vape tax amounts to consumers paying $1.50 extra. Evers’ proposal would have cost consumers $14.19.

The tax, enacted under state law, applies to businesses that do any of the following:

• Selling and shipping from outside Wisconsin to retailers in Wisconsin.
• Selling and shipping from outside Wisconsin to consumers in Wisconsin.
• Manufacturing vapor products in Wisconsin for sale in Wisconsin.

The Legislative Fiscal Bureau estimated the vapor products tax could result in $2.3 million in 2020 and $3.2 million in 2021.

A Vapor Product Tax page on the Wisconsin Department of Revenue's website answers many frequently asked questions. Those interested in the vapor products tax may sign up for the Cigarette, Tobacco and Vapor Products Excise Tax electronic mailing list.