E-Cigs Coming to a Bar Near You

by Meagan Dorsch

I was watching BBC America World News when I saw a story on the number of Irish pubs closing across the country. According to the story, pub owners are claiming that a new smoking ban is responsible (in part) for turning their profits to ash.

The same argument was echoed by several bar owners on this side of the pond when several states implemented smoke-free legislation. Today, 23 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico require most public places and workplaces—including restaurants and bars—to be smoke-free. At least seven additional state laws require most workplaces, including restaurants, to be smoke free—but exempt bars (thanks to Amy Winterfeld at NCSL for these stats).

But pub owners in Europe are doing something a little different. They are fighting back with technology. Many have invested in electronic cigarettes. Never heard of e-cigs? You are not alone...check it out. This new product is filled with a shot of nicotine and is not covered by smoking bans in Europe. Neither are the possible consequences. Some health organizations are now calling for more research into e-cigs before they become popular on the consumer market.

It might be too late. I discovered e-cigs are on the lips of smokers in Hawaii.
Plus, on October 13, MarketWatch says the electronic cigarette will make it's debut in 13 selected cities across the country.

Comments

[Ben]

Watch out when using these electronic cigarettes! Many of these are imitations made in China and have dangerous chemicals in them, according to this electronic cigarette site.

[Mike]

Great post! Electronic cigarettes are harmless, and an incredible invention! You get the nicotine, but without the 4000+ harmful chemicals that are in regular cigarettes! I can actually breathe now, and I can smoke anywhere regular cigarettes are banned (bars, restaurants, even airplanes!), and I don't have to pay those ridiculously steep tobacco taxes. Sooooo, what's the downside?

Here's a really informative site that reviews lots of different kinds of e-cigarettes, for anyone considering switching over that wants to learn a little more about them:

http://greensmokes.blogspot.com

And here are some videos showing how different brands of e-cigs work:

http://www.youtube.com/healthysmokes