Bloomington Places Restrictions on E-Cigs, Cigars

BLOOMINGTON, Minn. (AP) - The Bloomington City Council has passed a new ordinance that places stricter regulations on the use of electronic cigarettes and sale of cheap cigars.

The council voted unanimously Monday night to ban e-cigarettes in most public places, as well as sampling in stores where the devices are sold. The council also moved to discourage the sale of individual cigars, which health officials say are popular among young people. The new ordinance now requires cheap cigars to be sold in packages of five or more, unless the cigars cost more than $2.60 apiece.

Council members were joined by health officials in their opposition of e-cigarettes due to potential health risks. A representative from a coalition of health organizations said the proposals were simply common sense.