HAMILTON — A western Montana judge is hearing arguments over the state’s temporary ban on the sale of flavored vaping products.
Gov. Steve Bullock ordered the ban on Oct. 8, saying it was needed in the light of increasing teen use of vaping products and a nationwide increase in lung disease and deaths tied to vaping.
A vaping industry association challenged the 120-day ban, saying it would put their members out of business. District Judge Jennifer Lint signed a temporary restraining order preventing it from taking effect.
On Wednesday, Boston University community health professor Michael Siegel said the lung disease appears to be linked to the vaping of THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, not nicotine.
Pediatrician Lauren Wilson said the ban is needed to help prevent another generation of Montanans from becoming addicted to nicotine.
The hearing continues Friday.