The push to ban the sale of electronic cigarettes or e-cigs to minors in Delaware just needs a signature.
State senators approved the bill 19 to one with one abstention Tuesday afternoon, with little debate. E-cigs vaporize liquid nicotine that users inhale to get a high.
Health reports on the effects of that vapor are inconclusive, but groups are calling for further regulations on the devices.
Senate Minority Leader Gary Simpson was the lone ‘no’ vote, saying e-cigs could be used as an important alternative to tobacco and the state shouldn’t limit their availability.
“If that will keep a juvenile from beginning smoking, that’s what we should be doing.”
It now heads to the governor’s desk for a signature.
Later on Tuesday, the Senate also passed legislation barring minors from using tanning beds at all. Right now, they have to get their parents’ permission to use the devices.
It also mandates businesses post clear warning signs about the dangers of tanning. House lawmakers will consider the bill next.
