Republican lawmaker and vape shop owner, Rep. Ron Marshall, has announced his resignation from the Montana Legislature due to allegations of political favoritism towards major tobacco companies. Marshall, who has served since 2021, felt that his bill to create a regulatory distinction between vape and tobacco products was hindered by lobbyists from tobacco companies, ultimately failing to advance. The final straw for Marshall was the approval of House Bill 525, which would create a registry for vape products sold in Montana and ban products not approved by the FDA, backed by tobacco companies.
Opponents of the bill, including Marshall, argued that it would promote products from big tobacco companies and harm small businesses. Many vape shop owners spoke against the bill, describing it as a regulatory capture that would lead consumers back to harmful cigarettes. Despite opposition, the bill passed with an added 50% tax amendment, supported by Republicans and endorsed by Attorney General Austin Knudsen.
Marshall criticized the bill’s support by fellow Republicans and announced his resignation, stating that he did not want to be associated with corruption. He expects the Ravalli County Republican Central Committee to select his replacement soon. House Speaker Brandon Ler accepted Marshall’s resignation and expressed appreciation for his contributions. As the Legislature goes on break, Vice Chair Rep. Jodee Etchart will oversee operations in Marshall’s absence. Both Republicans and Democrats have made progress on various bills during this legislative session, with ongoing debates over issues like property tax relief, housing costs, abortion, and ethics concerns.
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