New York Includes Vaping Under Smoking Ban

The state has banned electronic cigarette usage anywhere smoking is prohibited.

October 25, 2017

ALBANY, N.Y. – On Monday, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed a law that bans vaping anywhere smoking is prohibited, the New York Times reports. The ban will start in 30 days.

That means, soon electronic cigarettes will not be welcome in restaurants, bars and workplaces. The assembly approved the addition of e-cigs to New York’s Clean Indoor Air Act over the summer.

New York has not been as open to vaping as other states, citing concerns about the product. A New York State Department of Health study in 2016 found that 20% of kids had tried e-cigs. In July, New York forbid electronic cigarettes from all school grounds.

“These products are marketed as a healthier alternative to cigarettes, but the reality is they also carry long-term risks to the health of users and those around them,” Cuomo said. “This measure closes another dangerous loophole in the law, creating a stronger, healthier New York for all.”

Within the state, approximately 70% of localities had already including vaping in their smoking bans, with New York City’s prohibition being in effect for four years. While the new law brings order to the patchwork of ordinances, manufacturers haven’t been happy about the changes, touting the e-cigs and vaporizes as safe alternatives to traditional tobacco products.

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