Electronic Smoking Devices - Prohibitions and Requirements
Impact
One of the significant implications of SB990 is its focus on protecting youth from the potential harm of electronic smoking devices. The bill prohibits advertising these devices within certain proximity of schools and parks, as well as in publications with a significant readership under 21 years of age. By restricting advertisements and sales practices, the bill seeks to reduce the appeal of such products among minors, thus aiming to mitigate public health risks associated with vaping among young people.
Summary
Senate Bill 990, known as the Electronic Smoking Devices - Prohibitions and Requirements Act, aims to introduce comprehensive regulations regarding the sale, advertisement, and manufacturing of electronic smoking devices in Maryland. This bill sets forth detailed requirements for manufacturers and retailers, including the establishment of a directory of compliant electronic smoking devices and manufacturers, which must be maintained by the Executive Director of the Alcohol and Tobacco Commission. This directory is a crucial aspect of the bill, intended to ensure that only devices meeting health and safety standards are available in the marketplace.
Contention
The enforcement measures outlined in SB990, such as penalties for manufacturers and retailers who violate the new regulations, have sparked discussion on the balance between public health interests and business operations within the vaping industry. Supporters argue that the rigorous control measures are essential for safeguarding communities, while critics may perceive them as overly burdensome on legitimate businesses that comply with the law. This tension underscores a broader debate about regulation and public health ethics in contemporary society.
Requiring a manufacturer of electronic cigarettes to certify annually under penalty of perjury that the manufacturer has received marketing authorization from the United States food and drug administration for the electronic cigarettes, establishing annual fees, requiring the department of revenue to maintain a website directory containing a list of all electronic cigarette manufacturers and certified electronic cigarettes and establishing civil and criminal penalties for violations.