The Underage Vaping Bill passed the Alabama House of Representatives in a 103-0 vote yesterday following a similar unanimous vote in the State Senate last month. Black Flag Communications worked with the Drug Education Council providing government relations counsel in support of the bill.
The bill, which bans possession of vaping devices by persons under the age of 21, was sponsored by Alabama State Senator Vivian Davis Figures and had the entirety of the Senate as co-sponsors. It now goes to the Governor for her signature.
“I am truly thankful for the entire Alabama State Legislature for its strong show of support for getting vapes out of the hands of our young people,” said Virginia Guy, executive director of the Drug Education Council. “Vapes not only represent health and addiction hazards for youth, they also have become the drug delivery vehicle of choice. This bill makes it illegal for these young people to be in possession of a vape, no matter what substance, if any, is in the device.”
Guy said that underage vaping is a huge health crisis in our community, with children as young as seven- or eight-years old beginning to vape.
“This is a tremendous first-step to help end underage vaping,” Guy said. “We want parents, educators, coaches and others to have the authority to take away vapes from young people. It allows law enforcement to seize vapes without having to conduct expensive tests to determine whether the device contains an illegal substance. Simple possession constitutes a violation.”
Guy added, “Our purpose is to inform, educate prevent… and also to provide help for those who may already be addicted.” Guy said, “Adults and minor alike need to understand the health risks associated with underage vaping. Please know that my Drug Education Council team will continue our work protecting our children from dangerous and deadly drugs in our community.”
Scott Rye, director of Black Flag Communications, said, “The Alabama State Legislature has come together in a rare show of bipartisan support for the Underage Vaping Bill by unanimously passing this legislation that will keep vaping materials out of the hands of minors and that will contribute directly to the improved health of future generations of Alabamians. With this bill, the state becomes a leader in the fight against underage vaping.”