City commissioners in Newton will consider an ordinance to raise the minimum age for the purchase of tobacco products, including e-cigarettes.
The commission heard a presentation this week from students at Newton High School about increased use of vaping products. A survey from Kansas Communities That Care reported that over 5 percent of Harvey County youth reported using e-cigarettes last year, and that number is up to almost 12 percent this year. Among high school seniors along, usage is over 29 percent.
The students said they don’t believe their classmates fully understand the potential harmful effects of vaping.
Commissioners have asked city staff to draft an ordinance to raise the minimum age to 21 for tobacco purchases, and they will consider action at their July 23rd meeting.
