Rep. Case hopes to save kids from e-cigarettes

HARTFORD – State Rep. Jay Case described to public health lawmakers Wednesday the growing use of electronic cigarettes, or e-cigarettes, among teenagers and the need for state government to curtail the deviation from a higher health standard.

E-cigarettes, currently unregulated in Connecticut, allow students to smoke tobacco or in some cases, marijuana, on school property and inside educational facilities.

“The lack of regulation of e-cigarettes has caused schools and college campuses to foster an unhealthy atmosphere, which promotes drug use among Connecticut’s youth,” Case told the legislative Public Health Committee. “E-cigarettes have similar chemically and physiologically addictive properties, such as those of real cigarettes. Ultimately, there is a deviation from the health standards that should be highly valued within learning institutions.”

The legislature this year is examining a number of bills related to e-cigarettes, many of which have overwhelming support. Case said he simply wants to ensure future residents of Connecticut are aware of health risks associated with smoking.