Albany, NY - October 24, 2017 - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today signed legislation adding electronic cigarettes to the Clean Indoor Air Act, which bans their use everywhere that smoking tobacco products are prohibited.
"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," Governor Cuomo said. "This measure closes another dangerous loophole in the law, creating a stronger, healthier New York for all."
This bill (S.2543A/ A.516A) would reduce the exposure to potentially dangerous chemicals for e-cigarette users and those around them. Under current law, only smoking substances containing tobacco, including cigars, cigarettes or pipes, are restricted in public places. While many counties have already banned the use of e-cigarettes in public places, including restaurants, bars and other work places, this bill makes the law consistent across the state.
In July, Governor Cuomo signed legislation that immediately banned the use of e-cigarettes on all public and private school grounds in New York State.
Electronic nicotine and vapor delivery systems, which include e-cigarettes, vaping pens, e-hookah and similar devices, typically contain nicotine. Some ingredients found in e-cigarettes are considered toxic and there is no regulation of what chemicals e-cigarettes contain how much nicotine the user is inhaling. These factors could lead to long-term adverse health effects for e-cigarette users and bystanders.
Senator Kemp Hannon said, "As the proud sponsor of this legislation, I am pleased New York will be taking this step to protect New Yorkers from the potential harms of e-cigarettes. E-cigarettes often contain toxic chemicals in addition to nicotine, something bystanders should not be forced to breathe. With recent reports showing their use among minors increasing, New York must continue to work to regulate these devices in a common sense manner."
Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal said, "Closing the e-cigarette loophole by including it in the Clean Indoor Air Act is a long-overdue step that will help protect every New Yorker's right to enjoy indoor public spaces free from the intrusion of e-cigarette vapor. I am pleased that the Governor signed this bill into law, and look forward to continuing to work with the Administration to enhance New York's tobacco control measures."