The Governor of the state of New York, Andrew M. Cuomo, signed a bill (S.2543A / A.516A) on Monday banning the use of vaporizers anywhere that smoking is already prohibited. This includes restaurants, bars, and places of work.
In just 30 days, this ban will go into effect. So if you’re vaping in New York, get ready for it because you’re about to be freezing your buns off outside in the cold this winter with the rest of the smokers.
While other states may or may not be soon to follow, it’s worth noting that New York represents one of the first state’s in the nation to ban the smoking of tobacco products in public indoor areas, the New York Times reports. This ban on indoor smoking went into effect in 2003. But now, with the signing of this new piece of legislation, the use of e-cigs in public indoor spaces has succumb to the same legislative fate as the cigarettes that they, in part, aim to replace.
While the debate continues over whether or not e-cigs really are a healthier alternative to smoking, Governor Cuomo has his own thoughts on the matter as he said in a statement:
“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. This measure closes another dangerous loophole in the law, creating a stronger, healthier New York for all.”
In related news, we recently reported here at Vaporizer Wire that Gov. Cuomo, in yet another bid to further regulate the vapor industry in the state of New York, has proposed a tax on e-liquid inventories across the state.