Several U.S. cities have filed lawsuits against e-cigarette manufacturer Juul, claiming that the company purposefully marketed its nicotine devices to teens and underage smokers, devices which, in some cases, have been linked to seizures associated with Juul use. Philadelphia is one of the most recent cities to pursue accountability from the corporation.

Why Is the City of Philadelphia Suing Juul?

The City of Philadelphia announced in October 2020 that it had filed a lawsuit against Juul for the company’s role in increasing youth interest in smoking and e-cigarettes. Prior to the popularity of Juuls and other vape pens, youth smoking had been on a steady decline. While less than 6% of high school students reported smoking traditional cigarettes in 2019, more than 27% reported using e-cigarettes or vape pens. Electronic cigarettes have been the most popular method of using tobacco for teens since 2014. Unfortunately, these popular nicotine products may cause dangerous health hazards, such as lung damage or seizures.

According to the Philadelphia lawsuit, the city is seeking to hold the tobacco company responsible for intentionally marketing its products to underage users. Juul has been accused many times of intentionally and illegally marketing its nicotine products to minors. Some of the company’s early advertising appeared to suggest that Juul vape pens could be disguised as USB drives, a common item in the backpacks of middle and high schoolers. Additionally, prior to a flavor ban instituted in early 2020, the company sold nicotine pod refills in kid-friendly flavors such as mango, crème brûleé, cool mint, and fruit medley.

According to a statement from Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney, the lawsuit is a step towards preventing future youth nicotine addiction. “The health of Philadelphia’s children is far too important to stand idly by. This corporation reaps untold profits by pushing an addictive product through its relentless and exploitative marketing, a shameful practice that this litigation aims to halt. JUUL needs to be held accountable.”

What Other Cities Have Filed E-Cigarette Addiction Lawsuits?

Many cities have filed similar lawsuits against Juul regarding the company’s effect on teen nicotine abuse. Chicago, Washington, D.C., and Louisville are pursuing litigation against Juul.

School districts and counties in Washington State, Florida, Kentucky, California, New York, and Colorado have also filed lawsuits against the company.

Many of these cities and school districts are looking for a payout from the e-cigarette company, in addition to holding Juul responsible for making vapes appealing to teens and children. According to some school districts, the epidemic of teen smoking has made it necessary to divert resources from other programs towards additional staffing to prevent smoking on school grounds and programming to help teens overcome nicotine and e-cigarette addiction. Many schools have also purchased vape detectors for school bathrooms. As these devices may be very expensive, school officials are hoping to pass these costs onto Juul.

What Are the Dangers of E-Cigarette Addiction?

In addition to the risks associated with any nicotine exposure, e-cigarette addiction may pose additional risks. Some people who have used these devices have reported experiencing seizures. Seizures and convulsions are a known potential side effect of nicotine overdose. Due to the smooth vapor and high nicotine content of Juuls and other vape pens, it may be easy for users to accidentally overdose on the substance.

If you or your child has experienced seizures or other side effects after using e-cigarettes and vape pens, you may be eligible to speak with an experienced attorney about the legal avenues available to you. Some victims may be able to file a lawsuit against Juul and pursue compensation for medical expenses, injuries, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Join a Free JUUL E-Cigarette Class Action Lawsuit Investigation

If you or your child suffered seizures after vaping with a JUUL e-cigarette, you may benefit from participating in a free JUUL class action lawsuit investigation.

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This article is not legal advice. It is presented 
for informational purposes only.