Concerns over nicotine product regulations took center stage at the Plymouth Board of Health meeting, with discussions focusing on the rising popularity of nicotine pouches among youth and the need for state-level intervention. Board members and community stakeholders emphasized the importance of addressing the accessibility of these products, particularly through online sales, which can bypass local restrictions.

One speaker highlighted the alarming ease with which minors can access flavored nicotine products online, calling for stricter state regulations to prevent such sales. “State regulation is far superior,” they stated, advocating for a ban on online sales to protect young people from the risks associated with nicotine use.

Jason Pierce, a local convenience store operator, defended nicotine pouches as a safer alternative for adult smokers transitioning away from traditional cigarettes. He noted that underage use of these products remains low, at just 1.8%, compared to other tobacco products. Pierce argued that restricting nicotine pouches could hinder efforts to reduce smoking-related health issues, stating, “To take that away from them... defeats the purpose of improving health in the community.”

The conversation also touched on the need for responsible retail practices, with participants agreeing on the importance of verifying ages during sales. A Plymouth High School student shared insights from their observations, noting that while vaping remains more popular among peers, the use of nicotine pouches is on the rise.

As the meeting concluded, the board recognized the complexity of nicotine regulation and the necessity for a balanced approach that considers both public health and the rights of adult consumers. The discussions underscored a growing consensus on the need for comprehensive state-level policies to effectively manage the sale and distribution of nicotine products, particularly in light of their increasing prevalence among youth.