New laws designed to restrict youth access to e-cigarettes took effect on September 1, following a legislative session in Texas focused on addressing rising vaping rates among adolescents. The measures target products that resemble common items such as phones, school supplies, and gaming devices. They also prohibit e-cigarette advertising near schools and churches or ads aimed at young people.
The move comes amid growing concern about the prevalence of vaping among students. According to a 2024 Food and Drug Administration study, more than 1.6 million middle and high school students in the United States use e-cigarettes. Data from the 2024 National Youth Tobacco Survey indicate that millions of students are now addicted to these products, with flavored options being particularly popular.
Physicians from the Texas Medical Association (TMA) advocated for these bills during the recent legislative session. Maria Monge, MD, chair of the Texas Public Health Coalition and vice chair of TMA’s Council on Science and Public Health, testified in support of stricter regulation on behalf of TMA and other medical groups.
“The more work we can put into just making access harder, the less likely adolescents are to become addicted,” said Dr. Monge.
Lawmakers were informed by TMA that marketing tactics using cartoon characters and candy imagery appeal directly to youth. Research has shown these practices contribute to increased use among teens by promoting perceived social benefits and facilitating addiction. Additionally, because many e-cigarette products are designed to look like everyday objects, they can be easily concealed by students.
Physicians highlighted health risks associated with nicotine exposure in adolescents: “The nicotine present in most e-cigarette products ‘disrupts neural development, affecting attention, learning, and impulse control,’ which ‘can lead to lasting changes in brain function, increasing the risk of lifelong addiction and exacerbating mental health issues.’”
Despite widespread use, nearly half of adolescent e-cigarette users have tried to quit within the past year according to JAMA Pediatrics findings. Supporters believe new regulations could help some young people stop using these products.
“[We support these bills] as a proactive approach to reduce e-cigarette use in youth,” said Valerie Smith, MD, pediatrician and former chair of the TMA Council on Science and Public Health. We support regulations that send a clear message: ‘The health of our children is not negotiable.’”
