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E-Cigarette Ban on School Grounds Heads to Governor’s Desk


AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) Maine could explicitly ban electronic cigarettes on school grounds under a Democrat’s bill that passed the House and Senate.

Sen. Rebecca Millett’s bill headed to Democratic Gov. Janet Mills’ desk Tuesday. Maine’s education department backed the legislation.

Maine state law already prohibits smokeless tobacco use at elementary or secondary schools.

Millett’s bill would explicitly prohibit possession of smoking devices such as vape pens along with rolling papers and any product that contains nicotine. Her bill also prohibits tobacco use on school busses and at school-sponsored events.

The bill in Maine comes amid concern over rising e-cigarette use, or vaping, among U.S. kids.

Millet said many school boards already have policies for e-cigarettes including flavored Juuls.

Tobacco producer Altria and Vapor Technology Association reported lobbying Millett’s bill.

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