Chicago City Council Supports Ban on Fruit-Flavored E-Cigarettes
Chicago, on Lake Michigan in Illinois, is one of the largest cities in the United States. In September 2019, Mayor Lori Lightfoot pledged to support a citywide ban on the sale of all flavored vaping products, but she never took action. Recently, OShea int
Chicago, on Lake Michigan in Illinois, is one of the largest cities in the United States. In September 2019, Mayor Lori Lightfoot vowed to support a citywide ban on the sale of all flavored vaping products, but she never took action on it.
However, O'Shea recently introduced an ordinance to ban such products. It applies to any liquid nicotine product with a flavor or aroma of “menthol, mint, wintergreen, chocolate, vanilla, honey, cocoa, any candy, any dessert, any alcoholic beverage, any fruit, any herb, or any spice.”
“They are targeting our children, and this will cost lives,” said O'Shea, a supporter of the e-cigarette restrictions. He cited recent studies claiming that people who vape are more likely to contract coronavirus and suffer severe consequences.
Despite these claims, some Chicago aldermen voted against the measure, saying it would hurt local businesses. Those who voted in favor argued that young people's health should come first. “We should not sacrifice the health of our youth for the sake of the budget,” said Ald. Harry Osterman of the 48th Ward.
Flavors help adults quit smoking
At the same time, countless studies have shown that flavors are crucial in helping adult smokers quit by switching from cigarettes to safer alternatives. In addition, recent research indicates that flavors are not the main driver of youth vaping; instead, the “cool” factor and curiosity play a bigger role.
Moreover, a new study of U.S. high school students found that teens who crave excitement are more likely to use multiple illicit substances, including tobacco and vaping products. Researchers Kevin Tan and Douglas C. Smith found that adolescents who are dissatisfied with life and therefore seek risky and exciting experiences are more likely to frequently use multiple illegal substances, including e-cigarettes. The study also found that participants' attitudes toward e-cigarettes reflected how they viewed other substances as well.
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