New York State Assembly Pushing for Ban on Underage E-cigarette Sales

The New York State Legislature is advancing a bill to ban the sale of e-cigarette products targeting minors. The bill (S7882/A8952), introduced by State Senator Monica Martinez, aims to prohibit the sale of e-cigarette products designed for minors, such as those with designs resembling school supplies or toys, or packaged in a way that appeals to minors.

This bill aims to prevent products designed to include shapes of items such as children's favorite cartoon, movie, and video game characters, electronic devices, highlighters, pens, and other school supplies, as well as toys. The maximum penalty for a first offense can reach $1,500, and for each subsequent violation, the fine is $2,500.

Congressman Martinez's office emphasized, "This bill aims to protect minors from e-cigarette use. E-cigarettes designed to resemble school supplies or toys should not be brought into schools, as students may view them as harmless."

According to data from the state's public health department, in 2022, approximately one-fifth of high school students in New York (around 18.7%) have used e-cigarette products. Particularly concerning is the increasing trend of middle school students aged 11-14 using e-cigarettes, highlighting the urgent need for protective measures for minors, especially younger students.