A federal judge is now considering whether to block enforcement of a new Iowa vape registry law requiring U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorization for all vaping and e-cigarette products sold in the state.

The law is being challenged by a group of business owners who argue it could cripple their operations. The case was presented Thursday morning in federal court, where the Iowa Department of Revenue defended the legislation.

One of the plaintiffs, Corey Halfhill, owner of Central Iowa Vapors, said the lack of clear guidance and the potential impact of the law on small businesses is concerning.

“It’s unsettling not to have clarity or direction,” Halfhill said. “We support reasonable oversight and proper enforcement, but we’ve seen cases where concerns about non-compliant products are ignored. That’s frustrating.”

Attorneys representing the state urged the court not to issue an injunction, arguing that doing so could prevent Iowans harmed by unregulated vaping products from seeking legal recourse.

The judge did not immediately issue a decision. A ruling is expected in the near future.