Statement From Senator Brad Hoylman On The Need For Statewide Ban On Flavored Tobacco And E-Cigarette Products

NEW YORK CITY – Earlier today, the New York City Council passed legislation banning the sale of flavored e-cigarettes. Senator Brad Hoylman, who sponsors statewide legislation to ban the sale of all flavored vaping products (S.428A) and to ban the sale of all flavored tobacco products (S.6809) issued the following statement in response:

“New Yorkers are coming together to fight against Big Tobacco’s chokehold on our communities. Now that New York City has banned flavored e-cigarette products, the State Legislature must build on this important step by completely banning the statewide sale of all flavored e-cigarettes and other flavored tobacco products, including menthol cigarettes, when we return to session in January.

“Flavored tobacco products, including menthols, have been used by Big Tobacco for decades to lure in new customers who become addicts for life. Recently, flavored e-cigarettes have become the bait-of-choice for the tobacco industry, using flavors like cotton candy and fruit punch to addict a new generation to nicotine. Studies show these products are associated with many negative health conditions and are particularly appealing to kids. They cause people to stay addicted, vape and smoke more, and experience greater difficulty quitting.

“The fight can’t end here. Now, we must pass the two bills I carry with Assembly co-sponsors Linda B. Rosenthal and Rodneyse Bichotte to ban all flavored vaping products and ban all flavored tobacco products.”

Senate Bill S.428A, co-sponsored by Assembly Member Linda B. Rosenthal, would prohibit the sale and distribution of flavored e-cigarettes. Senate Bill S.6809, co-sponsored by Assembly Member Rodneyse Bichotte, would prohibit the sale and distribution of flavored tobacco products and accessories. This month, Massachusetts passed similar legislation at the state level that is awaiting the Governor’s signature.