Utah has an opportunity to take a critical stand.
The rising popularity and increased use of vaping products, especially among our youth, has raised serious concerns about their safety. Adverse effects of vaping on the health of young individuals cannot be ignored. Vaping has been linked to severe, irreversible respiratory issues and lung damage, impaired brain development and addiction (per the Centers for Disease Control).
As a society that cares tremendously for our kids, it is our responsibility to protect them from these potential risks. And now is the time to do it.
The U.S. has seen an alarming uptick in youth vaping. And meanwhile, the FDA has yet to regulate nicotine content in e-cigarettes. In 2021, Utah took a step to fill this void by setting a pioneering rule to cap nicotine levels at 3% in vaping products. This move was widely hailed as a significant step toward protecting our youth from the pernicious effects of nicotine addiction and the associated health risks.
The passage of that legislation has been applauded and supported by Utahns and leaders across the political spectrum and universally by medical specialty organizations. At the same time, champions for health and protecting our children have underscored the responsibility of our state’s leaders to safeguard the younger generations from the public health crisis posed by higher nicotine levels in e-cigarettes.
Unfortunately, this protective 3% rule is now under threat. The Utah Vapor Business Association’s recent settlement with the Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHSS) has triggered a proposal to surrender control of nicotine regulation to the federal government.
This could lead to a dangerous increase in allowable nicotine levels, jeopardizing the well-being of our youth. Why would we support this? Is a profit motive by one industry more important than the wellness of our kids and of generations to come? Why instead doesn’t Utah continue to insist on a 3% maximum nicotine threshold? Manufacturers should be encouraged to prioritize the health and safety of their consumers over profits, and to be more transparent and accountable in the vaping industry. Ultimately, products should be designed with the well-being of users in mind.
I implore our governor and the Utah DHHS to continue to support and stand for the 3% limit on vaping products. This is not an area where there is room for compromise. This limit serves as a crucial step in curbing the rise of addiction and in safeguarding the future of our younger generations.
By holding fast to a 3% limit on the nicotine content in vaping products, we demonstrate our commitment to the health, well-being, and future of our kids. This measure will work to curb addiction, to protect future generations, to promote responsible industry practices, and to encourage the development of safer alternatives. Let us unite in supporting this crucial step, safeguarding our youth and building a healthier society for all.
You can comment by emailing tobaccorulescomments@utah.gov until July 17.
Utah State senator Dr. Jen Plumb
Jen Plumb is a pediatrician with University of Utah Health and Utah state senator District 9.