Los Angeles Electronic Cigarette Ban Starts Today
This Friday was the last day before new regulated rules we’re officially put in place on public e-cigarette users. Similar to tobacco smoking, L.A. has banned all vaping devices from public locations such as workplaces, bars and restaurants, as well as outdoor spots like parks and beaches. The ordinance was challenged but time was too little to turn it around for e-cigarette users. L.A. although not the first city to see the same electric cigarette ban, but it is a major one.
It was argued by local public health director Jonathan Fielding, that electronic cigarette vapor exhaled by users could possibly be leaving behind particulate matter and toxic chemicals. The decision was made with no conclusive evidence or studies to back up those facts. As a matter of fact, most studies conducted are showing how little the residual vapor actually leaves behind when compared to asthma pumps or nicotine inhalers which have no public ordinances for. However, the jury is still out as larger and more long-term tests need to be completed to get a concrete picture.
It is understandable that e-cigs are much more popular and commonly used compared to nicotine inhalers, but the comparison shows electronic cigarettes leaving behind a tiny fraction of what an asthma pump will throw in the air.
Cindy Club, a local establishment was reported as hosting a “Vaping Event” until midnight last night before the regulations. It is said that the new ordinance will be hard to enforce, and local business owners will continue to make their own call on the matter. Supporters have said that they will continue to work towards better regulations for e-cig users.
Local co-owner of VapeDay vaping lounge, Max Wu, was asked if he was concerned about the new e-cig ordinance. He expressed not being too worried about and stated it was still unclear how it would be regulated city wide and believes business owners will have the choice of enforcing or declining the ban inside their public premises.
Mr. Wu also believes the ban will only help increasing the popularity of electronic cigarettes. Sales just keep increasing when you entice people to rebel, and was quoted saying; “This will only make vaping more popular.” It has been reported that vaping lounges and locations specifically dedicated to electronic cigarette users will be allowed to continue to operate. Additionally, due to Hollywood movie filming needs, theatrical work will also be exempt from the ban.
L.A. users of water vapor devices have exclaimed how e-cigarettes have helped them quit smoking tobacco. Users of e-cigs alike expressed the argument that the safety of e-cigarettes compared to the carcinogenic smoke produced by burning tobacco is far too great to be ignored. Many of these people have been using electronic cigarettes instead of smoking and have been enjoying a great benefit from it.
We hope to see the ban be overturned and even public figures such as Corey Feldman, have taken to speak out in hopes that Los Angeles overturns the electric cigarette ban put in place.