Electronic cigarettes expected to grow in popularity under smoking ban

The clock is ticking for smoking establishments in Michigan. On May 1st the state will go smoke free, which means lighting up in your favorite bar or restaurant will be illegal.


But what about electronic cigarettes, will they be banned as well, and are there any harmful side effects?


Electronic cigarettes have been around for years, but are gaining exposure as more communities go smoke-free. The advantage for smokers is that they can still get a hit of nicotine, but without creating second-hand smoke.


Brandi Crawford has launched a business smell Greensmoke online from her Dowagiac home. The cigarette filters contain nicotine and water and are rechargeable. Instead of putting out smoke, they produce water vapor.


Crawford says she's expecting an increase of customers as Michigan's smoking ban takes effect.

 “Really popular in Florida, California, Chicago, where smoking ban has been in effect for years,” said Crawford.


While users of electronic cigarettes aren't inhaling smoke, it's the nicotine that still concerns doctors. 

Vicksburg family practitioner, Dr. Ken Franklin, warns that electronic cigarettes still aren't good for you.

“Most of the damage from cigarette smoke comes from cardiovascular disease, heart attack, stroke, high-blood pressure, birth defects, caused by nicotine itself,” said Dr. Franklin.