E-cigarette restrictions in B.C. to be introduced in spring

E-cigarettes are to be restricted in British Columbia with legislation designed to stem their use among young people, the government announced Thursday.

The legislation, expected to be introduced in the spring, will make amendments to the Tobacco Control Act, limiting sales of e-cigarettes to those over 19, with retailers required to check ID. There will also be restrictions placed on the location of retail displays and advertising.

The use of e-cigarettes will be banned on public and private school grounds, as well as in indoor public spaces and workplaces.

Sales of the products will not be allowed in public buildings.

"More and more young people are using e-cigarettes," B.C. Health Minister Terry Lake said in a statement.

"This legislation will limit the exposure to children of the possible dangers of e-cigarette vapour and the potential that e-cigarettes have to normalize smoking behaviour."

The government says the legislation — under what will be the Tobacco and Vapour Products Control Act — won't be introduced until early spring in order to give businesses time to prepare for the adjustments.