State Senator Jason Barickman/WJEZ file photo

By Neil Doyle

State Senator Jason Barickman wants more research done on vaping and e-cigarette products, but he doesn’t think the industry should be completely banned.

Barickman says he has concerns with the vaping industry, in particular, targeting minors to use their products.

“I think we can look at vaping and how it relates to minors and these products that are designed to entice and addict minors,” said Barickman.

The Bloomington Republican said education is also needed, but he’s worried about lawmakers who want to ban the industry.

“Vaping has evolved as an alternative for cigarettes.  We need to be careful in the legislature to not overreact and create new unintended consequences.”

Barickman said if vaping is outlawed, cigarette smoking could be on the rise.

As of Thursday, the Illinois Department of Public Health reports 69 cases of respiratory illnesses related to vaping.