Electronic Cigarettes Bypass Smoking Ban
DALLAS – On Tuesday, Jonathan Hatcher took his first puff from an electronic cigarette. He said the tobacco-free device still gave him a high.
“It gave me a good, relaxing nicotine feeling,” Hatcher said.
Tobacco Town started carrying the products a few months ago. They come with nicotine and without. Distributors say they’re becoming more popular.
“A lot of bars and restaurants are in favor of it actually,” said Jim Jinright, an electronic cigarette supplier.
Not all bars are smoke-free, but the trend is heading that direction. The Dallas ban took effect in April.
“I’ve actually had to stop people a couple of times and say oh no, no, no. There’s no smoking in here,” said Nicole Strawbridge, a bartender at Al’s Hideaway.
Now many smokers have to go outside or find an alternative.
‘You’re more than welcome to bring your electronic cigarettes in here, feel free to light up, or turn it on or whatever,” Strawbridge said.
The assistant director for Dallas City Code Compliance says there’s nothing about electronic cigarettes on the books, so they’re not prohibited in bars. That could change, because he’s asked the City Attorney whether the code should be updated. It’s currently under advisement.
It’s also important to note opposition from health organizations.
“Electronic cigarettes have not been adequately studied for safety. The flavored products may be popular with children instigating early addiction to nicotine,” said the American Cancer Society in a press release.
The FDA doesn’t regulate them, but the agency warns of some samples showing traces of carcinogens and toxic chemicals, like ingredients used in anti-freeze.
“You have to ask yourself what’s better. The tobacco? Or not having the tobacco?” Jinright said.
The option remains, at least for now.
