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CNMI Youth Congress urges lawmakers to require warning labels on betel nut products
Summary
A youth representative told the Senate public comment period that the CNMI Youth Congress strongly supports House Bill 24-20, which would mandate conspicuous warning labels on betel nut products, citing oral cancer concerns and rising youth use.
During the Senate's public comment period on April 23, 2025, Jaira Cruz, who identified herself as the CNMI Youth Congress representative for the island of Saipan, spoke on behalf of the twentieth CNMI Youth Congress in support of House Bill 24-20.
Cruz said the Youth Congress "express our strong support for House Bill 24-20, which seeks to mandate clear and visible warning labels on all betel nut products and containers imported or sold in the CNMI." She said the measure "is critical in raising awareness about the significant health risks associated with betel nut and aricuna consumption" and noted the Youth Congress regards betel nut as "a known carcinogen and a leading cause of oral cancer in our islands, currently the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in the CNMI." (Jaira Cruz)
Cruz said youth normalization of betel nut use and low public awareness of associated health risks concern the Youth Congress. She acknowledged the cultural significance of betel nut but emphasized informing consumers, particularly young people, of health risks. The Youth Congress asked the legislature to support the bill to promote "healthier, potentially lifesaving choices among our youth and the broader community."
Her remarks were made during the public comment portion of the Senate agenda; the body did not take immediate action on HB 24-20 during the session.
