National Tobacco 21 Policies
The past month has been one to celebrate if you are concerned about the teen vaping epidemic. Nationally, several communities have passed flavor bans, or have prohibited the sale of e-cigarettes and similar devices in their communities. Vermont passed a 92% tax on vaping and e-cigarette devices and paraphernalia. The private sector is also becoming engaged in prevention efforts – with Walmart being the most recent retailer to implement Tobacco 21 (raising age of sale in stores to 21) as a corporate policy effective July 1 of this year.
Kansas Supreme Court Upholds Tobacco 21
A lawsuit brought by a vape shop in Topeka, Kansas against the city had temporarily slowed Tobacco 21 efforts in Kansas. That case was heard earlier this year by the Kansas Supreme Court, who on June 28 issued a ruling in favor of the city of Topeka. This ruling will allow the city to put their local ordinance into full effect, and should encourage other communities begin moving forward with Tobacco 21 and other policies to address this epidemic. Locally, Johnson County has been a leader in vaping and tobacco use prevention on many fronts. Twelve Johnson County jurisdictions have “Tobacco 21” policies in effect, and many school and communities partnerships are working together to provide education and resources to help families, and the community come up with solutions.
If you would like to learn more about local efforts contact Nicole Brown at [email protected]