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Senate votes to ban e-cigarette sales to minors

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — It would be illegal to give or sell electronic cigarettes to minors under a bill approved by the Florida Senate.

The bill passed unanimously Tuesday with no debate. It adds electronic cigarettes to the law that bans the sale of tobacco products to minors.

Electronic cigarettes are battery-powered devices that heat a liquid nicotine solution, creating vapor that users inhale.

Sen. Lizbeth Benacquisto called the devices dangerous and said the bill she sponsored will keep children healthier.

A similar House bill has one more committee stop before being ready for a floor vote.