Idaho Committee Introduces E-Cigarette Regulation

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — An Idaho House panel has introduced a measure that would regulate electronic cigarette sales under the same statute as nicotine and tobacco products.

House Minority Leader John Rusche of Lewiston says the legislation would help prevent electronic cigarette sales to minors, while also creating a state database of retailers that sell the product.

If passed, the bill would require retailers to register with the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Electronic cigarettes, commonly called e-cigarettes, vaporize nicotine that's inhaled by the user.

Rusche told the House Health and Welfare Committee on Monday that e-cigarettes have the same harmful health side effects as tobacco products. The bill must now clear a legislative hearing before moving to the House floor.