New SC Law bans sale of E-Cigarettes to Minors

A new law signed by Gov. Nikki Haley this month bans minors from buying a tobacco substitute known as electronic cigarettes, or “e-cigarettes.” E-cigarettes are increasing in popularity, especially amongst smokers trying to kick their habit. They resemble traditional cigarettes, but work by vaporizing a liquid mixed with nicotine. Water vapor is released from the end of the device, like smoke from cigarettes, and the nicotine is inhaled. Because the products do not contain tobacco, they were not previously covered by state laws barring minors from purchasing cigarettes. The ban passed the South Carolina House 99-0 and the Senate 42-2. The law adds “alternative nicotine products” to list of items that minors cannot purchase under South Carolina’s tobacco laws. Minors in possession of tobacco products face a civil fine, or they can choose to complete a tobacco education class instead. A business that makes the illegal sale faces up to a $400 fine for repeat offenses.