E-cigarettes added to New York’s Clean Indoor Air Act

Legislation adding electronic cigarettes to the Clean Indoor Air Act, which bans their use everywhere that smoking tobacco products are prohibited was signed into law this week by New York Governor Andrew Cuomo.

“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,” according to the governor’s office.

“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.”

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.