This Legislature hereby finds and determines that electronic nicotine
delivery systems, commonly known as "e-cigarettes," have been growing
steadily in popularity since entering the United States retail market
in 2007. This Legislature further finds and determines that e-cigarettes
are advertised as alternatives to traditional tobacco products. This
Legislature determines that many convenience and grocery stores sell
these products, with some dedicated "vape shops" exclusively selling
e-cigarettes, liquid nicotine and related products. This Legislature
finds that, since their introduction, Suffolk County has regulated
the sale and use of e-cigarettes and liquid nicotine, ensuring that
these products can only be sold to adults over the age of 21. This
Legislature also finds that, in order to enforce the County's
laws regulating the sale of electronic nicotine delivery systems,
it is essential that the County know the locations of all retailers
of these products. This Legislature further finds that electronic
nicotine delivery system retailers should register with the Department
of Labor, Licensing and Consumer Affairs to ensure that the County
can effectively enforce its laws governing e-cigarettes and related
products.
