Legislation at the Capitol Could Decrease Vaping by Teens

Monday, October 4th, 2021 -- 9:11 AM

(Bob Hague, WRN) Legislation at the Capitol could decrease vaping by Wisconsin teens.

Dr. Louella Amos of Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin says no one should be vaping, but young people are particularly at risk. “It’s never safe for kids. My mantra has always been that nothing other than air should ever be in anyone’s lungs.”

The bill would raise the age to purchase tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and vaping cartridges, to 21 in Wisconsin. “Because younger teens and middle schoolers may not likely be friends with 21-year-olds or anyone older than 21, this may help make it more difficult for kids to obtain these products.”

It’s estimated some two million American teens are currently using tobacco vaping products. Dr. Amos of Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin says nicotine is particularly harmful to them. "The adolescent brain is very sensitive to nicotine. It can impair learning and memory, it effects their behavior, it can lead to issues with depression, mood disorders, anxiety. And the brain is still developing in these teenagers.”

Legislation at the Capitol would raise the age to purchase tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and vaping cartridges, to 21 in Wisconsin. Thirty-three states have already adopted the tobacco 21 standard in keeping with federal law.

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