Illinois lawmakers could ban marketing of vapes resembling school supplies

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Illinois lawmakers are trying to pass legislation to address the latest style of electronic cigarettes designed to look like highlighters, erasers and other school supplies.

Senate Democrats want to ban vaping companies from advertising, marketing or promoting e-cigarettes that could confuse parents or teachers into thinking the devices are common items.

Sen. Julie Morrison (D-Lake Forest) said teachers have complained to the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services about finding vapes in school that look like pencil sharpeners, erasers and toys.

"I've talked to young people that use them and said they first tried at a party because a friend had one and they thought it would be fun and everybody else was doing it," Morrison said. "But it does build an addiction, and that's what we're trying to get in front of."

Senate Democratic staff explained Morrison's plan would be enforced by the Illinois Department of Revenue, Attorney General and local law enforcement.

A separate plan could prohibit companies from shipping e-cigarettes to anyone in Illinois other than a distributor or retail store. Sponsors and advocates said many young people are buying the vaping products online and have the e-cigs mailed to them or a friend.

"It's important for us to continue to put guardrails in place to prevent kids from easily getting and accessing vapes and e-cigarettes," said Sen. Meg Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). "We have to do what we can to protect our youth from this high risk to their health."