On September 5, Syracuse.com reported the first vape-related illness in Central New York. At the time, it was one of 34 separate cases in the state of New York. Those numbers have gotten the attention of New York Governor Andrew Cuomo.
“It is undeniable that vaping companies are deliberately using flavors like bubblegum, Captain Crunch and cotton candy to get young people hooked on e-cigarettes – it’s a public health crisis and it ends today,” Governor Cuomo said.
The emergency ban on most e-cigarette flavors is already in place. However, the two-week grace period comes to an end next week. This is great from a health perspective, as the number of active cases in New York approaches 100.
Major companies like Walmart have already pulled e-cigarette products from their shelves, citing the uncertain legal status. Other local dispensaries like Salt City Vapes are in danger of going out of business if this law holds.
“I’m going to lose my job, my business. Everything I’ve worked for over the last few months,” Salt City Vape manager Nicholas Schoeck said.
The emergency ban is not permanent. It’s up for renewal in three months. If the law holds, local businesses could have to close their doors.
