Oklahoma House Bill could ban vaping, lighted marijuana in public places

An Oklahoma bill that would ban the use of e-cigarettes and vaping devices in public places passed the House March 13 with a 94-1 vote and moves on to the Senate.

Christopher Osuna owns Taste E Vapes in Ardmore, which sells vape products.

He said he is against House Bill 1389 which would prohibit the use of electronic cigarettes, vaping devices and lighted medical marijuana in public places, limiting them to areas where cigarettes are normally allowed.

Osuna, who smoked for 33 years before taking up vaping, said vaping devices are a much healthier alternative to traditional cigarettes and should not be compared.

"I totally believe and think that it's crazy to take it out of public places because it doesn't stink and it's a cool vapor," Osuna said.

Sate Rep. Tammy Townley, R-Ardmore, wrote the bill after the medical marijuana state question passed last year

While running for the position, she heard concerns from citizens who supported the measure but did not want to be around any smoke.

Vaping and e-cigarettes were included in the bill after hearing from folks around the state.

Osuna said he does not get complaints when he vapes.

"In fact, I've had testimonials," Osuna said. "People saying: 'Man, this has changed my life. It has saved me a lot of money. This is the best thing that's ever happened to me'."

Townley said she has received support from medical marijuana advocates in Ardmore who understand some people do not want to be around marijuana smoke or aerosol (vapor).

Townley said she and her constituents are concerned with the aerosol and smell vaping produces in public places as well as any hidden health risks since long-term effects of vaping are still being studied.

"Although they may be doing something better for themselves, trying to cut down on their nicotine, they're still infringing on the rights of other people," Townley said.

Ardmore resident Robbie Tynes said she is sensitive to strong odors similar to vaping.

"You just never know how many people have allergies that, sometimes just the prescription medications they're on, will cause them to become more sensitive to substances like that," Tynes said. "You've got to consider the other fellow."

Townley said Sen. J.J. Dossett, D-Owasso will carry they bill and expects for the measure to pass in the Senate without issue.

If signed into law, the measure would go into effect Nov. 1.