New York and Chicago ban e-cigarettes

New York City and Chicago have banned electronic cigarettes from restaurants, bars and other public places. File picture: Mike Segar

New York City and Chicago have banned electronic cigarettes from restaurants, bars and other public places. File picture: Mike Segar

Published Apr 30, 2014

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New York - New York City and Chicago have banned electronic cigarettes from restaurants, bars and other public places.

The bans, which began on Tuesday, have been triggering debate between health officials and the e-cigarette industry on the future of the devices in the US.

The Chicago ban applies to indoor public places, and New York’s also extends to parks and beaches.

Supporters of the ban argue that it will prevent the re-glamorisation of smoking among young people, who could see electronic cigarettes, which vaporise a nicotine-based liquid, as a “gateway” to the conventional tobacco-based version.

Lawmakers also warn that the candy-like flavourings of the devices are designed to appeal to teenagers.

Manufacturers claim they are less harmful than cigarettes and are helpful to smokers who are trying to quit. - Daily Mail

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