104% Tariffs Take Effect, 400% Rumors Stir Debate At 12:01 AM on April 9, 2025, the U.S. officially implemented “reciprocal tariffs” on Chinese imports, raising the cumulative tariff rate to 104%—on top of the previously existing 25% tariff. While the White House announced a 90-day deferral of new tariffs for certain countries, tariffs on Chinese goods remain at high levels. Amid this, rumors of a 400% tariff gained traction after Shark Tank investor Kevin O’Leary publicly advocated for such a move, claiming it would “level the playing field” and put pressure on China. However, this proposal has not been adopted, and official tariffs remain between 104% and 125%, with no indication of a 400% rate being implemented.

A recent court ruling has impacted the implementation of Utah's new e-cigarette regulations. A federal judge has allowed the state to enforce the flavored e-cigarette ban while suspending the inspection program targeting retailers. Business owners fear the ban may drive the market underground, whereas state officials believe the law will help protect minors from tobacco-related harm.

The Nebraska Legislature unanimously passed Bill No. 9, which will impose a 20% wholesale tax on alternative nicotine products—including Zyn—and legally define "alternative nicotine products" and "nicotine analogues." This measure aims to establish a uniform standard for future products, reduce youth dependency (#YouthProtection), and advance public health and e-cigarette regulation (#PublicHealth, #E-CigaretteRegulation). If enacted, the bill will take effect on January 1, 2026, and is expected to generate approximately $3.4 million in tax revenue over the next two fiscal years (#TaxPolicy).