Schumer Says E-Cigarette Makers Are Marketing To Children

ALBANY, N.Y. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Sen. Charles Schumer says the manufacturers of e-cigarettes should be prohibited from marketing to children and creating flavors that he says are designed to appeal to kids.

The New York Democrat said Sunday that the same marketing restrictions that apply to traditional tobacco products should be expanded to cover e-cigarettes.

He cited a recent report indicating that while traditional tobacco use is down among teens, the use of e-cigarettes is up.

Schumer said e-cigarette makers are trying to attract young customers with flavors like gummy bear, chocolate and bubble gum.

"E-cigarette companies are stepping over the line and marketing these products to kids to get them hooked on smoking," Schumer told WCBS 880. "And they're hoping that the federal government passes the buck and turns a blind eye. But we can't let that happen."

The Food and Drug Administration issued proposed regulations for e-cigarettes last year but has not yet implemented them. Schumer says there's no need for further delay.

"Right now, cigarette manufacturers are prohibited from marketing regular cigarettes to our kids," Schumer said. "Why shouldn't the same laws apply to e-cigarettes, which can also be harmful to our kids?"

(TM and © Copyright 2015 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2015 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)