Illinois has implemented a ban on vaping in public places

Starting Monday, the use of e-cigarette products will be banned in public places in Illinois.

Christina Hamilton of the American Lung Association said the organization has been advocating for states to expand smoking bans to include e-cigarettes. She said partners across Illinois have worked with the association for years to prohibit indoor e-cigarette use.

"We’re very pleased that this ban finally took effect on January 1," Hamilton said.

Critics, however, say e-cigarettes are a safer alternative for smokers trying to quit.

Shortly after the bill was signed, Elizabeth Hicks of the Consumer Choice Center warned that the measure could drive Illinois residents back to cigarettes, at taxpayers’ expense.

"Taxpayers will unfortunately be affected as well," Hicks said. "Illinois pays more than $2 billion annually in Medicaid costs related to smoking-related illnesses, one of the highest totals in the nation."

The Illinois Department of Public Health said in a statement that banning indoor use of such products "sends a strong message that e-cigarettes are not a safe alternative to smoking."

Hamilton said bystanders, employees, and other vulnerable people could be harmed by being near people using e-cigarettes.

"The tiny toxic particles from e-cigarettes can linger in the air," Hamilton said. "Nicotine and aerosol from e-cigarettes can expose users and those around them to harmful substances, including heavy metals and volatile organic compounds," she said.

Hamilton added that banning indoor smoking would also help drive cultural change to discourage children from using these products.

"The less these products are used in public places, the more socially unacceptable they become to some extent. We will see usage decline," she said.

The Smoke Free Illinois Act prohibits the use of cigars and cigarettes in public places and within 15 feet of entrances. By 2024, e-cigarette products will be included in the ban.