The Speaker of the House of Representatives of Puerto Rico announced the submission of a bill that would prohibit the sale of all flavored e-cigarette products to individuals under the age of 21.
Key Points at a Glance
- Country/Region: Puerto Rico, USA.
- Core Action: Submission of House Bill P.C. 1070.
- Regulated Products: Electronic vaping devices, e-liquids, and cartridges containing flavor or aroma.
- Key Restriction: Prohibits the sale of flavored or aromatic products (other than nicotine-only) to individuals under 21 years of age.
- Enforcement Measures: Authorizes the Department of Health to regulate, penalize, confiscate, and dispose of non-compliant products.
House Bill P.C. 1070 Targets Flavored Vaping Products
According to a Metro report on January 29, 2026, a statement released by the Puerto Rico House of Representatives announced that Speaker Carlos Méndez and Representative Pedro Julio Santiago have submitted House Bill P.C. 1070.
The bill seeks to prohibit the sale of all flavored e-cigarette products—including e-cigarettes, e-liquids, and cartridges with flavors or aromas other than the original—to individuals under the age of 21.
Lawmakers Cite Youth Nicotine Addiction and Health Risks
Méndez described e-cigarette use as an “epidemic,” arguing that it is driving a new generation of young people toward nicotine addiction. He also highlighted common withdrawal symptoms associated with cessation and raised concerns about diseases such as bronchiolitis obliterans, commonly referred to as “popcorn lung.”
According to Méndez, these risks justify stronger restrictions on access for minors and young adults.
Flavored E-Cigarettes Seen as Particularly Appealing to Youth
Méndez specifically referenced several brands commonly available in the local market, including JUUL, Elf Bar, Geek Bar, and Smok. He emphasized that the wide variety of flavors makes these products more attractive to consumers and increases the risk of use among teenagers and young adults.
Declining Cigarette Use but Rising Concerns Over Vaping
The Puerto Rico Department of Health reported that the local tobacco use rate declined from 9.6% in 2019 to 8.5% in 2024. However, while traditional cigarette consumption continues to decrease, flavored vapes have emerged as a new public health challenge.
U.S. States With Existing Flavored Tobacco Restrictions
Several U.S. states have already banned the sale of flavored tobacco products, including New Jersey, New York, California, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. Other states—such as Florida, Utah, Maryland, Illinois, Connecticut, Delaware, and Colorado—have implemented significant restrictions on the range of permitted flavors.
Enforcement Powers Under the Puerto Rico Vaporizer Sales Regulation Act
The proposed legislation, titled the “Puerto Rico Vaporizer Sales Regulation Act,” would prohibit the sale of flavored vaping products to individuals under 21 years of age. It would also authorize the Puerto Rico Department of Health to establish regulatory guidelines, impose fines, and confiscate and dispose of non-compliant products.
