MONTPELIER, Vt. (WCAX) – Vermont lawmakers Thursday evening are debating and plan to vote on a ban on flavored tobacco and vapes.
The bill would ban flavored vape products as well as “ZYN” nicotine pouches, which have gained popularity amongst young people. and which experts say is the catalyst behind the legislation.
“We worry about cancer — lung cancer, oral cancer. We worry about teeth problems, having to have major dental work done on your teeth later,” said Anne Morris with the Vermont Academy of Family Physicians.
However, some lawmakers remain concerned about the impact on small businesses and the loss of revenue to state coffers. “The intent of this bill isn’t going to be achieved because there are so many other ways kids can access e-cigs from online, to popping over the border to New Hampshire,” said Rep. Gina Galfetti, R-Barre Town.
The Senate already passed the measure last year. House Speaker Jill Krowinski, D-Burlington, says she believes lawmakers have the votes to pass the ban but it remains unclear if they have the votes to override a veto from Governor Phil Scott if he chooses to do so.
A ban on menthol cigarettes is not in this version of the bill and will be studied further.
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