If you’ve strolled down a street lost in thought, only to find yourself enveloped in a fog of toxic aerosol from an electronic cigarette, rest assured those days are about to end.
The state of Illinois recently passed a groundbreaking law that will ban the use of vaping in all public spaces, including portions of buildings and vehicles accessible to the public. The legislation, which will go into effect on January 1, 2024, reflects the state’s commitment to curbing the rise of e-cigarette usage and fostering healthier communities.
The decision to ban e-cigarette smoking in public spaces stems from growing concerns about the adverse health effects of vaping on both users and bystanders. While originally marketed as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, the long-term effects of e-cigarette usage have become increasingly apparent. Health risks range from respiratory issues to cardiovascular problems.
First-hand Knowledge of Vaping Harm
Our firm knows firsthand the harm that vaping can cause. We have a client who began vaping as a way to stop smoking and believed it was a safe alternative. He developed a vaping-related injury so severe that he was relegated to a wheelchair. Further, his cognitive skills are diminished, leaving him confused and uncertain much of the time. Success in the courtroom against the e-cigarette manufacturer Juul would go a long way toward providing our client with the restitution he deserves.
In an exclusive interview on WGN-TV, Smith LaCien’s founding partner Brian LaCien talked about the case and added that it was not unusual to see these problems emerge…even years after someone stopped smoking or vaping.
This won’t be the first time that Juul has faced penalties in a court of law. Earlier this year, the city of Chicago reached a $23.8 million settlement with Juul Labs over claims that the e-cigarette company aimed its vaping products at young people. Speak to a Chicago injury lawyer to learn more!
Penalties for Breaking the Law
Starting in January, anyone who is caught using an e-cigarette in a public place in violation of the Smoke-Free Illinois Act can be fined $100 for the first offense and $250 for the subsequent offenses. The owners of the place where the person violates the law could face a $500 penalty at first and $2,500 for all subsequent violations for the next year.
The firm praised the new law but said it isn’t a panacea. Sadly, there are people who will flaunt the law or choose to continue vaping in private spaces, putting themselves and those around them at risk. Contact a personal injury lawyer in Chicago today to learn more.