SAN DIEGO – The San Diego County Board of Supervisors approved a measure this week that would amend the county code to outlaw usage of electronic cigarettes in places that ban tobacco smoking, KSWB-TV reports. The amendment has a second, final vote later this month.

If passed, the amendment would prohibit e-cigarette “vaping” in public buildings, and county buildings and parks. “The public is lacking information about the risk of the exposure to these devices, and I believe that the county, as stewards of public health, we have to limit the public’s exposure to potentially harmful vapors,” said Supervisor Dave Roberts.

Owners of e-cigarette stores opposed the measure. “I understand that there is a need for some regulation, but it needs to be reasonable. It needs to be in the best interest of everyone,” said Erik Johnson, who co-owns the Garden Road Vape.

However, county board members pointed out that similar proposals have gained traction in localities across the country. “Sometimes when new technologies are introduced there is a response, and not a proper vetting of the issue,” said Supervisor Ron Roberts. “In this instance there has been a proper vetting and I think we’ve done our homework.”