The Bill is in and Vaping is Out! says Oklahoma Senators

Oklahoma school officials are probably breathing a sigh of relief with the most recent Bill passed. Senate Bill 33 bans vaping products on school compounds, in school vehicles and at school-organized events and activities. With 45 of the 46 senators voted in favor of the Bill, it is clear that there is a strong desire to stop vaping in Oklahoma schools.

The FDA has the responsibility for protecting and promoting public health by controlling the sale and use of tobacco and other products. Within recent years (2016), it included the regulation of electronic cigarettes to the list. These e-cigars work by heating a liquid in a small tank until vapor is produced.

Nicotine levels are cause for concern

Some e-liquids are available with 0% nicotine. However, others contain varying percentages. Nicotine is a highly addictive substance and is said to have harmful effects on one’s health. As a result of possible ill effects and after much debate, e-cigarettes are now to be regulated as tobacco products in the state of Oklahoma.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, “smoking leads to disease and disability and harms nearly every organ in the body”. It also states that exposure to secondhand smoke can have ill effects for adults and children. Of major concern is that vaping could be the vehicle for students transitioning to cigarettes and marijuana. The American Cancer Society indicates that there is evidence to show thatnicotine harms the brain development of teenagers.

Mixed feelings about the Bill

Many Oklahoma schools already have a policy to treat students who are found vaping or using regular cigarettes. However, Senator Dossett, who voted for the Bill, believes that the State law will help reduce the number of students using the products. It will also prevent non-smokers from being exposed to the potentially harmful e-cigar vapor. He further stated that the Bill applies to public and private schools but can be expanded to include CareerTech campuses.

Meanwhile, Senator Dahm, who voted against the Bill, felt the issue was already being taken care of locally. He further argued that the Bill will also regulate products that do not contain nicotine. What effect the Bill will have is yet to be seen but those in favor are very hopeful.