TSET & Tulsa Law Enforcement Team Up to Curb Youth Tobacco Access
The TSET Healthy Living Program in Tulsa County is teaming up with local law enforcement and community partners to curb youth access to tobacco and vaping products. The program aims to educate retailers and prevent underage sales, which can lead to nicotine addiction and health risks.
The initiative involves retailer education visits, with youth volunteers attempting to buy tobacco products without intent to purchase. This approach aims to raise awareness of laws prohibiting tobacco and vape sales to minors, rather than entrapping retailers. The program recognizes and appreciates retailers who refuse to sell to underage customers, labeling them as 'local heroes' for protecting young people from addiction.
The collaboration includes organizations such as the Tulsa Health Department, Oklahoma State Department of Health, American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, and local community groups. Together, they work to prevent youth access to tobacco, one of several strategies to improve Tulsa County residents' health and wellness. The program's efforts are crucial, given that nearly nine in 10 smokers in the U.S. first tried cigarettes before age 18, with 9.1% of Oklahoma high school students smoking and 27.8% vaping.
The TSET Healthy Living Program's collaboration with local partners is making strides in reducing youth access to tobacco and vaping products in Tulsa County. By educating retailers and preventing underage sales, the program helps protect young people from nicotine addiction and its associated health risks.
