ABLE Commission Targets Underage Tobacco and Vape Sales with New TSET Funding

The Oklahoma Alcoholic Beverage Laws Enforcement (ABLE) Commission is intensifying its efforts to combat underage tobacco and vape sales, thanks to new funding from the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust (TSET). With over $50,000 in new funds, the ABLE Commission aims to enhance compliance checks, educate youth and parents, and update the state’s vapor product registry. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to reduce youth access to nicotine products and address the rising trend of underage vaping in Oklahoma.

The ABLE Commission plans to use the new TSET funding to conduct more frequent and thorough compliance checks. These checks are designed to ensure that retailers are adhering to laws prohibiting the sale of tobacco and vape products to individuals under 21. By increasing the number of compliance checks, the commission hopes to deter retailers from selling to minors and reduce the availability of these products to young people.

In addition to traditional retail checks, the ABLE Commission will also focus on home delivery services. With the rise of delivery apps like DoorDash and Postmates, there has been an increase in minors obtaining vape products through these platforms. The commission will conduct targeted compliance checks on these services to ensure they are not facilitating underage sales.

Training for law enforcement officers is another critical component of this initiative. The ABLE Commission will host regional training sessions to educate officers on the latest tobacco laws and effective compliance inspection techniques. This training will equip officers with the knowledge and skills needed to enforce these laws more effectively.

Youth Education and Prevention

Educating young people about the dangers of tobacco and vaping is a key strategy in preventing underage use. The ABLE Commission, with support from TSET, will implement educational programs in middle schools across Oklahoma. These programs will focus on the health risks associated with nicotine use and the long-term consequences of addiction.

The commission will also launch a public awareness campaign targeting parents and guardians. This campaign will provide information on how to talk to children about the risks of vaping and tobacco use. By involving parents in the conversation, the commission aims to create a supportive environment that discourages youth from experimenting with these products.

Furthermore, the ABLE Commission will collaborate with local community organizations to extend the reach of their educational efforts. These partnerships will help disseminate information and resources to a broader audience, ensuring that more young people and their families are informed about the risks of tobacco and vaping.

Updating the Vapor Product Registry

A significant portion of the new funding will be allocated to updating the Oklahoma Vapor Product Registry. This registry is a critical tool for tracking the sale and distribution of vape products within the state. By making the registry more user-friendly and accurate, the ABLE Commission aims to improve regulatory oversight and ensure that all vape products sold in Oklahoma comply with state laws.

The updated registry will include enhanced features for tracking product origins, ingredients, and sales data. This information will help the commission identify trends and potential areas of concern, allowing for more targeted enforcement actions. Additionally, the improved registry will facilitate better communication between the commission and retailers, ensuring that they are aware of and compliant with all relevant regulations.

The ABLE Commission’s efforts to update the vapor product registry reflect a broader commitment to using data and technology to enhance public health initiatives. By leveraging these tools, the commission can more effectively monitor and regulate the sale of vape products, ultimately reducing youth access and use.