NY and CT AGs seek expanded FDA action on e-cigarettes

The attorneys general of New York and Connecticut are part of a seven-state coalition urging the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to expand it scheduled enforcement actions against the sale of e-cigarettes.

The coalition called on the federal agency to include menthol and mint flavors in e-cigarettes and to advance further the date it will begin enforcement actions against all flavored e-cigarettes that the FDA has not approved. The lawmakers also sought a federal ban on the online sale of e-cigarettes. In addressing the FDA, the attorneys general insisted flavored e-cigarettes and online sales of the product contributed to increased smoking among teenagers.

“The FDA”™s fundamental responsibility is to protect the health and well-being of the American public,” said New York Attorney General Letitia James, who spearheaded this initiative. “Increased enforcement action on flavored e-cigarettes are critical to public health, especially for young New Yorkers, who too often get hooked on these products at a young age, leading to a lifetime of addiction. My office will continue to work with other states to prioritize the welfare of our youth.”

“Youth use of e-cigarettes in Connecticut has skyrocketed, and flavors are a big part of that problem,” added Connecticut Attorney General William Tong. “The FDA must act immediately to ban all flavors, including menthol and mint. My office is in close contact with partner states and carefully reviewing all legal options for further action to address harmful marketing of e-cigarettes to children.”