No Decision Reached in Montana Flavor Ban Talks

Those advocating both for and against a proposed ban on the sale of flavored vapor products gave two very different opinions of the same product. During a virtual hearing on Thursday, proponents of flavored vapes said a ban would protect children from a lifetime of addiction to nicotine while those opposed claimed it was being unfairly targeted and helped smokers quit combustible cigarettes.

The ban, discussed during a two-hour virtual hearing held by the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), would eliminate the sale, marketing, advertising or distribution of flavored electronic smoking products, also known as vaping, that target Montana youth, according to an article in the Great Falls Tribune.

No decision was reached Thursday, only public testimony was taken.

Comments can also be submitted in writing to Heidi Clark, DPHHS Office of Legal Affairs, PO Box 4210, Helena, MT, 59604; fax (406) 444-9744; or email dphhslegal@mt.gov. Comments must be received no later than 5 p.m. July 24.