STATEHOUSE — House Bill (HB) 1225, authored by State Representative Matt Lehman (R-Berne), was signed into law by Gov. Mike Pence this week. The bill prohibits the sale of electronic cigarettes, also known as e-cigarettes, to anyone under the age of 18. It applies the same regulations to e-cigarettes that are already in place on regular cigarettes. “E-cigarettes are no different than regular cigarettes in that they both contain nicotine,” said Rep. Lehman. “This new law is a significant step towards protecting young Hoosiers against this highly addictive drug.” The FDA is likely to implement regulations similar to HB 1225 at the federal level within the next few years. A representative of one of the largest e-cigarette manufacturers in the country also testified in support of the bill stating that the product was never meant for children. “Indiana will benefit from updating its laws to bar children from having access to e-cigarettes before federal requirements are mandated,” said Rep. Lehman. “Minors are not allowed to buy traditional tobacco cigarettes and should not have access to this product either.” HB 1225 will go into effect on July 1, 2013. -30-
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