Maryland Comptroller Peter Franchot announced Monday that his Field Enforcement Division will prohibit the sale of disposable flavored Electronic Smoking Devices (ESDs). This would make his division the first in the nation to take such action.

As reported by WUSA9:

“Today, in addition to the FDA’s prohibition of flavored e-cigarette cartridges, I have directed our enforcement agents to take more aggressive action by prohibiting the sale of disposable ESDs with flavors other than tobacco or menthol,” Comptroller Franchot said. “As the state’s tobacco regulator, it’s my legal and moral responsibility to protect consumers, especially children, from the hazardous substances contained in these unauthorized products.”

From CBS Baltimore:

There are anywhere from 7,000 and 8,000 retailers in the state who would otherwise sell the products. Franchot’s office is now training state inspectors who will be keeping an eye out for the devices.

The Comptroller created a task force to study and make recommendations regarding electronic smoking devices last fall. The task force will have recommendations for additional action at its final meeting in February.

For more information:

Maryland Comptroller announces first-in-nation prohibition on sales of disposable e-cigarettes (WUSA9)

Maryland Comptroller Announces Prohibition On Sales Of Disposable Flavored E-Cigarettes, First In US (CBS Baltimore)