Skip to main content

Pallone Statement on Rise of Vaping-Related Deaths and Illnesses

September 16, 2019

Congressman Has Legislation to Address the Youth Tobacco Epidemic & His Committee Is Investigating E-Cigarette Manufacturers

Long Branch, N.J. – Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) issued the following statement in response to the increase of vaping-related deaths and illnesses:

"It's clear that e-cigarettes are a major threat to public health in this country. Whether it be vaping-related lung disease that has led to six deaths thus far, seizures or the unknown long-term effects, we cannot ignore the negative impacts that e-cigarette use has on our nation's health. We also cannot lose a new generation to a lifetime of nicotine addiction," Congressman Pallone said. "That's why earlier this year I not only introduced comprehensive legislation to curb the youth tobacco epidemic, I've also launched an investigation into electronic cigarette manufacturers. I am deeply concerned that consumers lack adequate information to evaluate the serious health impacts of these new tobacco products, including e-cigarettes."

Last April, Pallone introduced comprehensive legislation to address the youth tobacco epidemic. The Reversing the Youth Tobacco Epidemic Act of 2019 would raise the minimum age for purchasing tobacco products to 21 years and makes it unlawful for any retailer to sell a tobacco product to any person younger than 21 years of age. It would also prohibit the sale of flavored tobacco products, including menthol. Last month, Pallone's Energy and Commerce Committee announced an investigation beginning with letters to five electronic cigarette manufacturers, and on September 25, Pallone's Committee will hold an oversight hearing on the public health risks of e-cigarettes with officials from the FDA, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and state health officials.

Issues:Health Care