Got a reply from my Congressman - Florida

[Bill54]

Sent an email to congressman Bill Young, who actually used to attend my church. Here is his reply. Take it for what it's worth:

March 22, 2011


Thank you for letting me know of your opposition to any effort banning the use of "e-cigarettes".

As you know, e-cigarettes are battery-operated devices that look like normal cigarettes, but contain no tobacco and instead of smoke emit a nicotine vapor when the user inhales. Although the popularity of these items is well documented, there are some here in Congress wishing to ban the use until the Food and Drug Administration conducts a study on the effects of these devices that are aiding many people in their fight to quit smoking.

Because of your interest in this matter, and in an effort to be of all possible assistance to you, I have taken the liberty of contacting FDA Commissioner Dr. Margaret Hamburg, to share with her your thoughts. The Commissioner has assured me that your views will be given serious consideration. This is a matter under careful scrutiny by the Congress and you can be sure that I will continue to monitor any new developments that occur.

Again, thank you for taking the time to contact me regarding this matter of mutual concern. It is my hope that you will continue to keep me apprised of your interest in legislative issues important to you.

With best wishes and personal regards, I am

Bill Young
Member of Congress

 

[kristin]

ban the use until the Food and Drug Administration conducts a study on the effects of these devices that are aiding many people in their fight to quit smoking.

The FDA doesn't do studies (they require companies to submit studies to the FDA, which they then review) and e-cigarettes aren't intended to be used as smoking cessation devices (ie. nicotine addiction treatments.) Just as low-fat foods aren't meant to be a cure for over-eating disorders but a less fattening substitute, e-cigarettes aren't a treatment for smoking but a less hazardous substitute. If they are looking for FDA studies or approval as a treatment or cure, it'll never happen. Something which continues the use of nicotine could never be deemed a cure for nicotine addiction. If the FDA would remove nicotine abstinence as a criteria for smoking cessation (because if you use smokeless nicotine, you are no longer smoking) maybe e-cigs could then be considered a non-treatment, smoking cessation tool.

 

[n2xe]

With best wishes and personal regards, I am

Bill Young
Member of Congress

Is it just me or does the "I am Bill Young" signature make you feel like your dealing with a completely self-absorbed jackass that couldn't care less?