In an effort to address the growing problem of student vaping, schools across the country are taking steps to crack down on the behavior. This includes installing sensors and cameras to monitor for any instances of students vaping on campus. Harsh punishments are being handed out to students caught vaping, including suspension and expulsion in some cases.
Schools have invested millions of dollars in surveillance technology, including federal COVID-19 emergency relief funds, to help combat this issue. Despite these efforts, however, schools continue to struggle with keeping students from using e-cigarettes on campus.
In addition to schools’ efforts, health officials are also warning about a new nicotine-free vaping device that has recently hit the market. These products are marketed as a safer alternative to traditional smoking and feature fruity flavors and sleek designs. However, health officials warn that they still carry many of the same health risks as traditional e-cigarettes due to their harmful chemicals, including metals and volatile organic compounds.
Under Hawaii’s current e-cigarette law, these non-nicotine vapes are classified as tobacco products and can legally be sold to individuals over the age of 18. However, health officials emphasize that these products still carry significant health risks and urge consumers to be cautious and informed about their potential impacts.
