Removing Flavored E-Cigarettes from the New Jersey Market is a Step Forward, But Falls Short of Necessary Action

Today, the state of New Jersey passed legislation that would end the sale of all flavored e-cigarette products but failed to vote on a measure to remove menthol cigarettes from the market. American Lung Association National Assistant Vice President, State Public Policy, Michael Seilback issued the following statement:

“Today’s vote is an important step forward and we applaud Assemblymember Conaway and Senator Vitale for their efforts to protect public health. With the federal government failing in efforts to remove flavored tobacco products from the market, it is imperative for states to act.  Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that, nationwide, more than one in four high school students are using e-cigarettes, and multiple studies report that flavors are driving youth addiction.

“If we are to end the vaping epidemic once and for all, then today’s action is not enough: we must remove all flavored tobacco products from the market.  We urge Governor Murphy to work with legislative leaders to pass comprehensive flavored tobacco legislation this year.”