In a recent government meeting, representatives discussed the alarming rise of nicotine addiction among youth, particularly due to vaping. One speaker highlighted significant statistics indicating a dramatic increase in vaping among adolescents, with middle school usage soaring by 1,650% and high school usage by 1,733% between 2011 and 2019. This surge comes despite a notable decline in traditional smoking rates among high school students, which dropped by 74% during the same period.

The speaker emphasized the importance of addressing this issue, noting that while adult vaping rates have decreased by 12% from 2014 to 2018, many adults still engage in dual use of both cigarettes and vaping products. They acknowledged the potential benefits of vaping as a harm reduction strategy for adults trying to quit smoking but expressed deep concern over the epidemic levels of youth vaping, driven largely by appealing flavors.

The representative called for support of a proposed bill aimed at curbing youth access to these products, describing it as a necessary and overdue measure. They praised the collaborative efforts across the political spectrum to address this pressing public health issue, urging committee members to back the motion to protect the younger population from nicotine addiction.