DeLauro Urges Speedy Implementation of Proposed E-Cigarette Rule

Applauds Provision Banning Sales to Minors, a Step She Had Previously Urged

NEW HAVEN, CT—Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) today urged speedy implementation of the e-cigarette rule proposed by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). She also applauded the part of the proposed rule banning e-cigarettes from being sold to anyone under 18 years old. DeLauro had previously urged FDA Commissioner Margaret Hamburg to take exactly that step.

“Disturbing trends show that a growing number of our nation’s youth are using electronic cigarettes, which provide the latest method for delivering addictive nicotine into their systems. The rule proposed today is a good first step towards reversing that trend, but it is only a step. I strongly urge the Administration to implement the rule expeditiously, and not let it get delayed or watered down by corporate interests.

“The FDA should also develop additional rules to curb the marketing of flavored e-cigarettes, which are particularly attractive to youth, as part of a comprehensive attack on this growing problem. E-cigarettes come in a plethora of flavors that are attractive to youth—chocolate, gummy bear, bubble gum and strawberry just to name a few. The potential for kids and teenagers to become hooked on e-cigarettes should be taken just as seriously as we take traditional cigarettes. Additionally, the rule clearly says vending machines are restricted to adult-only facilities, but I am disappointed it does not similarly limit self-service displays, such as next to candy or on the counter in convenience stores. Keeping e-cigarettes and flavored cigars in these places ensures they will remains easily accessible to youth. The FDA needs to address this issue.

“The latest data shows that in 2012 more than 1.78 million middle and high school students nationwide had tried e-cigarettes. The FDA first announced plans to restrict the sale of e-cigarettes three years ago. Our children’s health cannot be put at risk one moment longer.”

DeLauro sits on the subcommittee responsible for funding the FDA. Congress gave the FDA the authority to regulate e-cigarettes under the 2009 Tobacco Control Act, which DeLauro cosponsored.