Newswise — A Rutgers University vaping expert is available to comment on Gov. Phil Murphy signing a new law banning the sale of flavored vaping products in New Jersey. The ban is scheduled to take effect in April.
“The state recognized the needed action to curb youth e-cigarette use, but it missed an opportunity to address this crisis more comprehensively,” said Kevin Schroth, associate professor at the Center for Tobacco Studies and the Rutgers School of Public Health. “The ban on flavored e-cigarettes appropriately covers the flavor menthol, unlike a recent federal rule. To address flavored nicotine products sensibly, our lawmakers and Governor should promptly prioritize banning menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars, which contribute to far more death and disease.” He added, “I applaud the Legislature and Governor for the ban on the use of coupons and other discounts for tobacco and e-cigarette transactions. The tobacco industry has used these tactics for decades to attract and keep customers.”
“More legislation and innovative measures are needed like requiring retailers to use electronic age verification technology to prevent underage sales.” Perhaps more importantly, Schroth noted, “the state should seriously consider adopting an alcohol-like model for tobacco and e-cigarettes by restricting sales to a finite number of licensed, stand-alone, specialty shops. This model would remove tobacco and e-cigarettes from our pharmacies, gas stations, and other retail stores, making purchases far more difficult for underage youth.”
To interview Professor Schroth, contact Maud Alobawone at [email protected] or 848-445-1913.
Broadcast Interviews
Rutgers University–New Brunswick has broadcast-quality TV and radio studios available for remote live or taped interviews. For more information, contact Neal Buccino [email protected]
About RBHS
Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences (RBHS) takes an integrated approach to educating students, providing clinical care and conducting research, all with the goal of improving human health. Aligned with Rutgers University–New Brunswick, and collaborating university-wide, RBHS includes eight schools, a behavioral health network and four centers and institutes. RBHS offers an outstanding education in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, public health, nursing, biomedical research and the full spectrum of allied health careers. RBHS clinical and academic facilities are located throughout the state.
RSS