NY adds vaping to smoking ban statewide

Electronic cigarettes might be more socially acceptable than cigarettes in some spaces but as far as the law goes they'll be viewed the same. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo added electronic cigarettes to the Clean Indoor Air Act, which bans their use everywhere that prohibits smoking tobacco products.

"These products are marketed as a healthier alternative to cigarettes but the reality is they also carry long-term risks to the health of users and those around them," Cuomo said in a statement. "This measure closes another dangerous loophole in the law, creating a stronger, healthier New York for all."

The manager of Cloud 99 Vapes in the East Village, a place that focuses specifically on vape and e-cigarettes, said she supports the move. Alexandra Miller said people should not vape or smoke indoors.

Some places, including New York City, have already banned the use of e-cigarettes in public places, like work, restaurants, and bars. This measure makes the law consistent across the state.

Electronic and vapor-delivery systems often times contain nicotine. Mike Davoli of the American Cancer Society said that the law ensures that you can go to a restaurant with your kids and be sure that neither you nor the kids are exposed to an electronic cigarette.

One of the big concerns is the popularity of e-cigarettes among young people. In July, the governor banned vaping on school grounds. In many ways, this is an extension of that.