TO THE EDITOR:
In a recent editorial, “Consumers and businesses should set vaping rules,” The Daily Tar Heel expressed concern over Orange County’s proposed vape-free air policy, which would disallow e-cigarette use in bars and restaurants. However, the claims presented by the Editorial Board are unfounded and misleading.
E-cigarettes are an emerging product, and due to their novelty, the long-term health effects are still uncertain. However, there is evidence showing that e-cigarettes are not harm-free. Secondhand e-cigarette aerosol is not water vapor — it can contain nicotine, volatile organic compounds, metals and other chemicals. E-cigarette aerosol can exacerbate asthma and other respiratory conditions for users and those around them. Lastly, e-cigarettes and e-liquids are completely unregulated at this time, so there is no way to ensure their quality or safety.
The author also claims that a vape-free air policy would curtail individual rights. However, the use of tobacco products — including e-cigarettes — in any public space actually infringes on the rights of non-smokers and non-vapers. Without the vape-free air policy, employees and customers at restaurants and bars have no protection against e-cigarette chemical exposure while working in or patronizing these businesses.
Lastly, the author states,“Education and social pressure have been much more effective in lowering tobacco usage in recent decades than heavy-handed bans.” The proposed vape-free air policy is, in fact, about creating social pressure to not vape. Similar to North Carolina’s highly favored 2010 smoke-free bars and restaurants law, this policy promotes a healthy environment for everyone to enjoy Orange County’s bars and restaurants. We believe that all individuals deserve the opportunity to breathe clean air, including service professionals at Orange County’s bars and restaurants.
Shauna Rust
Senior
Health policy and management
Amanda Kong
