FDA Brings E-Cigarettes Under Federal Authority

WASHINGTON (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Electronic cigarettes are coming under federal scrutiny.

Hundreds of e-cigarette brands will have to seek federal permission to stay on the market under new rules that have the potential to upend a multi-billion dollar industry attempting to position itself as an alternative to traditional cigarettes.

The Food and Drug Administration on Thursday released long-awaited rules that bring the burgeoning industry under federal oversight.

Among other steps, the FDA rules limit e-cigarette sales to minors and require new health warnings. In a move vigorously opposed by manufacturers, the agency said manufacturers would have to seek permission to remain on the market under a multi-tiered system. Those that don't submit the required information could have their products taken off the market.

"The rule also will allow the FDA to evaluate the ingredients in these additional tobacco products, how the products are made and their potential impact on public health," FDA Commissioner Robert Califf said.

The ruling go into effect in 90 days.

"Today's announcement is an important step in the fight for a tobacco-free generation – it will help us catch up with changes in the marketplace, put into place rules that protect our kids and give adults information they need to make informed decisions,"  said Sylvia Burwell, the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services.

The action comes as e-cigarette use is on the rise among young Americans. In 2015, 3 million middle school and high school students used the devices.

"Nicotine does not belong in the hands of children," Burwell said.

E-cigarettes turn nicotine into an inhalable liquid vapor.

Some people use  e-cigarettes thinking they're a healthy alternative to regular cigarettes, but the possible health benefits and harms of e-cigarettes remain unclear. It's also unknown whether they lead young people to become regular smokers.

The head of the Tobacco Vapor Electronic Cigarette Association called the FDA ruling unfortunate, saying it will force 9 million Americans back to tobacco cigarettes.

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In:
• Food and Drug Administration
• E-Cigarettes