Stricter vaping sales restrictions in Nassau

Posted

New legislation aimed at further reducing the sales of vaping and other tobacco products, was passed unanimously by the full Nassau County Legislature on Monday, July 9.

Nassau Legislator Steve Rhoads said the new bill would restrict the “point-of-sale advertising” of these products by forbidding them from being displayed near candy or toys and requiring them to be sold from behind the counter. The fine for stores for violating this policy will start at $250.

The amendment to a recently passed law restricting the sale of e-cigarettes, Juuls and vapes to anyone under the age of 21 throughout Nassau County, is co-sponsored by Rhoads, a Republican from Seaford.

“These dangerous products have been marketed towards children, with flavors like bubble gum, cotton candy and others,” Rhoads said. “By displaying them next to candy, trading cards or toys, they are encouraging children and young adults to think they are harmless when it is becoming increasingly apparent that the truth is very much to the contrary.”

Rhoads said that recent scientific studies have found a number of harmful metals and chemicals in e-cigarette vapors – including suspected carcinogens like formaldehyde and acetaldehyde. Additionally, recent studies have shown that substances in some e-liquids that were considered harmless at room temperature could become toxic after they’re heated by an e-cig’s internal coil, which turns the liquid into vapor. 

Additionally, it has always been known that e-cigs, Juuls and vapes contain Nicotine, which is highly addictive and may itself be dangerous when consumed in large quantities.

“In taking these actions, the Legislature is swiftly moving to combat a growing threat,” Rhoads said.