New restrictions on electronic cigarettes, commonly known as e-cigarettes, passed the Suffolk County Legislature on Tuesday.
Lawmakers approved a bill that restricts the battery-operated high-tech butts use in public places and their sale to those under the age of 19. The devices contain flavored liquid nicotine in cartridges that is vaporized, then inhaled and mimics smoke. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a public health warning based on tests that found they contain carcinogens.
“This vote signals that our local government will not hesitate to take steps to protect the next generation of Suffolk residents from the newest health risks,” said Legislative Majority Leader Jon Cooper (D-Lloyd Harbor), who proposed the bill.
E-cigarettes have already been banned in Australia, Canada, Israel, Mexico and Singapore. Suffolk County Executive Steve Levy is expected to sign the bill into law, which will then take effect 90 days after it is signed by New York’s Secretary of State in Albany.