But the industry, which is populated by more than 100 independent businesses in Orlando alone, faces onerous regulation that grows out of fear rather than facts. Overregulation threatens to snuff out the innovation that has driven the category and put many independent vape shops out of business — ironically, handing over the category to Big Tobacco. As an industry, we know that an appropriate degree of government oversight is needed, like a federal ban on purchase by anyone under 18. It's equally important that the category is regulated to ensure product safety and quality as it expands. But legislators should act in a way that allows this multi-billion dollar industry to continue to grow, innovate and change the lives of smokers.