Massachusetts launches probe into Juul Labs marketing practices

BOSTON — Massachusetts' attorney general is launching an investigation into a popular e-cigarette maker.

Attorney General Maura Healey said Tuesday she wants to find out whether California-based Juul Labs is tracking underage use of their products and whether its marketing practices are intentionally driving its popularity among young people.

She says her office has sent subpoenas to Juul.

"We are unfortunately seeing many companies pick up the playbook of tobacco companies and look to market to and get young people addicted," she said.

Healey says she has also sent cease-and-desist letters to two online vaping stores she says appear to be selling products to minors.

The Food and Drug Administration in April asked Juul to turn over documents about the design, marketing and ingredients of its product.

Matt David, a spokesman for Juul, said it's also committed to preventing underage use of its product and welcomes the "opportunity to work with" Healey. He says Juul has never marketed to anyone underage.

MORE: Local doctor warns parents of dangers of Juul e-cigarettes

Associated Press