A highlighter? A pen? A USB drives? Nope – a vape. Protecting the health and safety of Westchester County’s youth, County Executive Ken Jenkins announced legislation that would prohibit the sale of e-cigarettes and vaping products designed to look like everyday items.
Jenkins said: “These products are disguised as smartphone cases, toys, drink containers, backpacks, and other common items. While they may appear harmless, these devices are intended to attract young people and make it easier for them to access nicotine. This legislation is about protecting our children and keeping Westchester safe and healthy.”
The proposed law would:
- Ban the sale, offer for sale, or transfer of e-cigarettes or vaping products that resemble school supplies or personal items.
- Establish fines ranging from $300 to $1,500 for violations, with increasing penalties for repeat offenses.
- Authorize the Westchester County Board of Health to enforce the law.
The legislation reflects growing concern over deceptive marketing practices aimed at youth and aligns with Westchester County’s ongoing efforts to reduce nicotine use among minors.
Jenkins said: “Westchester County is taking a stand against these deceptive products. We want our children to grow up healthy, not addicted to nicotine, and this legislation is a critical step toward that goal.”
Ossining Schools Superintendent Mary Fox-Alter said: “As Superintendent of Schools, my top priority is the health and safety of our students. Deceptive vaping devices and deceptive marketing poses serious risks, not only to physical health but also to learning and development. We fully support this legislation to protect our young people and ensure our schools remain safe, healthy environments for all students.”
Greenburgh Graham Union Free School District Acting Superintendent of Schools Dara E. Joseph said: “This is not just a school issue it’s a community issue. Combating vaping among youth requires all of us: parents, educators, health professionals, and community leaders working together to give our young people the tools and knowledge to make healthy choices.”
White Plains Public Schools Superintendent of Schools Joseph L. Ricca, Ed.D. said: “We are grateful that County Executive Jenkins is standing up for the health and safety of our children by making the deceptive marketing of e-cigarette and vaping devices illegal in Westchester County. Disguising products as everyday items that can rob our children of their health and wellness is a serious problem facing every parent – this legislation ends that concern and takes another step forward in supporting our children’s overall health and safety countywide.”
Tarrytown UFSD Superintendent Ray Sanchez said: “Protecting the health and safety of our students must always come first. This legislation is an important step toward ensuring that unhealthy products, like vapes, have no place in our communities.”
American Lung Association Health Promotions Specialist Molly Franco, MSW said: “The American Lung Association remains committed to a tobacco-free future where no child is addicted to tobacco products. To end youth tobacco and nicotine use, it is necessary for the entire community to be involved, including lawmakers, parents, teachers, coaches, school administrators, community-based organizations, and healthcare providers.”
The County Executive is urging the Westchester County Board of Legislators to pass the measure promptly so the law can take effect immediately.
