Schools across the country are taking action to crack down on student vaping by installing sensors and cameras to monitor the behavior and handing out harsh punishments to those caught in the act. Despite investing millions of dollars in surveillance technology, including federal COVID-19 emergency relief funds, the problem of student vaping persists.
In Hawaii, the State Department of Health issued a warning about a new nicotine-free vaping device that has recently entered the market. These devices are promoted for their fruity flavors and sleek designs, appealing to individuals looking for a safer alternative to traditional smoking. However, health officials caution that these products can still pose health risks due to the chemicals typically found in e-cigarettes, such as metals and volatile organic compounds.
State health officials argue that the availability of these new vaping products perpetuates smoking behavior and attempts to evade regulatory oversight. While these non-nicotine vapes are classified as tobacco products under Hawaii’s current e-cigarette law and are legally sold to individuals over 18 years of age, there are still significant health risks involved.
Consumers, especially young adults and parents, are advised to exercise caution and educate themselves about the potential health impacts associated with these new vaping products. Despite being marketed as nicotine-free and harmless, they still carry risks to health that should be taken seriously.