In an effort to regulate the burgeoning e-cigarette market, the Los Angeles City Council voted 15-0 today on two separate ordinances: one bans the sale of e-cigs to minors and another treats e-cigs in the same vein as traditional cigarettes
E-cigarettes are tar-less and involve inhaling a water-based substance laced with nicotine. As of right now, e-cigs are allowed pretty much anywhere. The plans, brought up by Paul Koretz, aims for that to change.
Overall, the plan to group e-cigarettes in the same category as traditional cigarettes will open the door to banning them from use in restaurants, stores, beaches, elevators and outdoor recreation areas, the L.A. Weekly reports.
The plan, which was also seconded by Mitch O'Farrell, is the first major attempt by the city to address the issue of e-cigarette use in the city.
Koretz's report indicates that e-cigarette usage among teens has doubled, from 4.7 percent in 2011 to 10 percent in 2012. The report reads:
It should be noted that candy flavorings and fruit flavorings are known to entice children and are banned in traditional cigarettes. However, products such as electronic cigarettes that contain these flavorings can be easily purchased at retail stores.
The report notes that there already is a state law in place banning the sale of e-cigs to minors, but the law isn't clear as to who can sell them. The plan aims to fix that by forcing sellers of e-cigarettes to get the same kind of permit that sellers of traditional cigarettes have.
All the ordinances need now is a signature from Mayor Garcetti to take effect. For the time being, we advise e-cig aficionados to enjoy their freedom while it lasts.
Related:
Unregulated, Addictive, And Enticing: E-Cigarettes Suck In Smokers But Risks Remain
