Oklahoma Governor Signs E-Cigarette Ban On State Property

Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin signed an executive order Monday that prohibits the use of electronic cigarettes on all state-owned and leased properties.

The governor's action comes nearly two years after she signed a similar order banning the use of tobacco products. Lawmakers earlier this year passed legislation making the smoking prohibition permanent.

2/17/2013 Related Story: Debate Rages On Controversial Ordinance Regarding Smoking Ban

The new ban on e-cigarettes prohibits their use on all state-owned and leased properties and in state-owned and leased buildings and vehicles.

The governor said the prohibitions on e-cigarettes and the earlier prohibitions on other tobacco products protect the health of employees and people visiting state-owned properties.

Fallin said recent popularity of e-cigarettes and vaping devices are a concern because they are unregulated products and the long-term health impacts are unknown.

Fallin made the e-cigarette ban effective January 1, 2014.

10/18/2013 Related Story: More Businesses Across OKC Metro Banning E-Cigarette