Mass. AG Healey Proposes Banning Sales of E-Cigarettes to Minors

Massachusetts Attorney General Maura Healey is proposing regulations that would ban the sale of electronic cigarettes to minors.

The regulation would also prohibit free giveaways of the devices and require they be kept out of the reach of customers.

Currently there is no state law prohibiting the sale of e-cigarettes to minors. Several communities have approved local age restrictions.

The regulations would effectively treat e-cigarettes like other tobacco products.

The regulations would also ban the sale of e-cigarettes except through face-to-face exchanges and require sellers of nicotine liquid or gel to use child-resistant packaging that meets federal standards.

The metal or plastic battery-powered devices resemble cigarettes but heat a liquid nicotine solution, creating vapor that users inhale.

Critics say the devices could keep smokers addicted or act as a gateway to hook new users.