California Passes Ban on Flavored Tobacco and E-Cigarettes

Nov.11.2022
California Passes Ban on Flavored Tobacco and E-Cigarettes
California bans flavored tobacco and e-cigarettes, becoming the second state to do so.

On November 8th, a bill was passed in California with 58% of voters in favor and 32% against, to maintain the existing ban on flavored tobacco and electronic cigarette products, making it the second state, following Massachusetts, to prohibit the sale of flavored e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes.


Additionally, it is the fifth state to comprehensively ban flavored e-cigarette products, following Massachusetts (November 2019), Rhode Island (March 2020), New Jersey (April 2020), and New York (May 2020) (click on the blue link to view related documents).


Gavin Newsom, candidate for Governor of California, tweeted that "there are many people coming out to vote, don't miss out - it's time to stand up against those despicable tobacco companies who sell out the future of our children and grandchildren while making a fortune for themselves, it's insane. Please vote YES on Proposition 31 to ensure the flavor ban stays in effect. Saving lives is everyone's responsibility!


Governor Newsom's tweet


An upcoming ban has sparked outrage among interest groups and electronic cigarette users. Tobacco companies such as Reynolds have filed a lawsuit against California (click on the blue font to view related news), and former smokers have commented on Governor Newsom's Twitter in opposition.


Former smokers publish condemnatory comments under Newsom's tweet.


As of October 18, 2022, more areas outside of those states have voted to pass bans on flavored tobacco. These areas include:


Colorado has five.


Georgia state has one.


Illinois has two major cities, one of which is Chicago.


Maine has three major cities, including Portland.


27 cities in Minnesota (including Minneapolis)


Ohio Two


Oregon 1


Pennsylvania has one major city, which is Philadelphia.


And Washington, D.C. as well.


Governments around the world are tightening regulations on electronic cigarettes, and one method of control is to ban flavors. More and more governments may choose this approach. 2FIRSTS will continue to monitor the latest developments regarding electronic cigarette regulations around the world. Stay tuned for updates.


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