State Rep. Bronna Kahle this week voted in favor of a plan to ban the sale of e-cigarettes to minors and prevent individuals under 18 from possessing vaping products in Michigan.

Kahle, of Adrian, said the number of teenagers who use e-cigarettes has increased dramatically over the past few years, prompting parents, teachers and law enforcement officers to reach out to her with concerns. In a recent study, one in five Michigan high school students reported having used an e-cigarette during the previous 30 days.

“Vaping is becoming more and more popular among our teenagers, and I’m hearing that many have the misconception that it’s safe,” Kahle said. “It’s time we take action to reverse this alarming trend and get e-cigarettes out of children’s hands.”

Electronic cigarettes are battery-operated devices that deliver nicotine and flavoring without burning tobacco. The devices are small and often look harmless – including a version that looks just like a computer flash drive – making them appealing to teens and difficult to detect in schools.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, vaping nicotine can harm adolescent brain development and lead to addiction. Many vaping products also contain diacetyl, which is commonly associated with “popcorn lung” – a condition that damages airways.

Senate Bills 106 and 155 received overwhelming support in the House and now head to the governor for consideration.

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