CONCORD, NH – New Hampshire teens involved in anti-drug programs have helped persuade the New Hampshire House to pass a bill banning e-cigarette use by minors and are pressing the Senate to do the same, the Associated Press reports.
The ubiquitous electronic smokes are readily available throughout the state, and the concern is that their usage, which includes a dose of nicotine steam, will lead to regular cigarette usage.
The AP writes that proponents of the proposed ban want New Hampshire to apply the same standards that it has in place for tobacco products, which are barred in workplaces and other public places and banned for use by minors.
The FDA does not currently regulate electronic cigarettes, though the issue has been contentious and battled out in the court system.
The Electronic Cigarette Association (ECA) supports restricting the product’s use to adults and supports New Hampshire’s effort to keep the product out of the hands of minors, according to the AP.
“Usage of electronic cigarettes is a lot like smoking. That is an adult activity,” said James Watt, an ECA board member.
New Hampshire state Rep. Rich DiPentima said that the legislation is intended to put state regulations in place since the FDA has ruled that it will not take action.
