Hawaii Senate Bill SR177

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/24
• Refer: 3/14/24

Caption

Urging The Department Of Education To Disseminate Information To Educate Students And Teachers And To Raise Awareness About The Smoking Epidemic.

Impact

The resolution aligns with the priorities set forth by the Keiki Caucus, which emphasizes the need for addressing the challenges posed by vaping within the educational environment. Although the existing Hawaii Administrative Rules aim to provide a safe learning environment, there are gaps in regulations regarding e-cigarettes, as only traditional tobacco products are explicitly prohibited in schools. Consequently, this resolution could pave the way for updated policies that better protect students from the risks associated with vaping and smoking.

Summary

Senate Resolution 177 (SR177) urges the Department of Education in Hawaii to disseminate information aimed at educating students and teachers about the smoking epidemic, particularly focusing on electronic smoking devices such as vapes. The resolution stems from an acknowledgment of the rising rates of e-cigarette use among students, with statistics showing 48% of high school and 31% of middle school students having experimented with e-cigarettes. This highlights a worrying trend associated with electronic nicotine delivery systems and their potential health impacts on youth.

Contention

Notably, the resolution advocates for a shift in disciplinary practices surrounding student smoking offenses. Instead of punitive measures such as suspension or expulsion, SR177 recommends that students caught smoking receive counseling and education regarding the harmful effects of tobacco. This approach reflects a growing recognition that education and support may be more effective in tackling smoking habits among youth than traditional disciplinary actions, which may not address the root causes of the issue.