The Laramie City Council came to order yesterday to discuss the legalities of electronic cigarettes within the community.
The council passed Ordinance 1901, prohibiting e-cigarettes in public places, for its second reading with a 9-0 vote. Ordinance 1902, prohibiting use of e-cigarettes by minors, was passed on its second reading with a 9-0 vote, as well.
The council debated amendments to the ordinances for over an hour. There was much discussion on the language used, and if the proposed amendments would undermine the city’s existing smoking ordinance.
The council passed an amendment allowing sampling of vaporizers in stores dedicated to selling the product, as long as the product does not cross contaminate nearby outlets or dwellings.
“The point of the amendment is to allow sampling in small shops,” Mayor Dave Paulekas said. “The real purpose of this is to eliminate cross-contamination, or contamination or if you will, other smells from drifting to other properties.”
Councilman Joe Shumway was in objection to all of the proposed amendments, saying there are too many health risks associated with e-cigarettes and they should be banned in all public places, including retail stores.
The council will hold a third reading of both amendments in their next meeting on October 21 at City Hall.
