REMARKS
Council Member Ariola introduces legislation to address youth vaping in schools
0:54:59
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120 sec
Council Member Joann Ariola introduces Intro 999, which aims to address the rising vape usage among youth by requiring the installation of vape detectors in schools. The legislation is presented as a response to what Ariola describes as a 'silent epidemic' of youth vaping.
- According to Ariola, nearly 1 in 5 students in New York State have reported using e-cigarettes in the past.
- The proposed vape detectors would alert staff when vaping is detected on school grounds and serve as a physical deterrent.
- Ariola also commends colleagues Joe Borrelli and Christie Memorialato for their work on rezoning text amendments and securing projects for their districts.
Joann Ariola
0:54:59
Thank you.
0:55:00
Majority leader.
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Today, I'm introducing intro 999, which addresses the rising a vape usage among our youth, and it is not just a trend.
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It is a silent epidemic.
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According to the New York State Department of Health, nearly 1 in 5 students in this state have reported that they've used e cigarettes in the past.
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As did thousands of young middle schoolers.
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Like any challenge, this epidemic demands a clear and decisive response.
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That response comes in the form of vape detectors.
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These devices will not only alert staff in the event that vape is detected on school grounds, but they will also serve as a physical deterrent to prevent young people from trying these products while on campus.
0:55:44
For far too many of our children have had 1st encounters with ecigarettes and similar products right in our schools and not on our streets.
0:55:55
The grounds are supposed to be safe spaces that encourage positive growth in healthy habits, but instead, they're becoming exactly the opposite.
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By installing vape detectors at places of learning across the city, we can reclaim our schools as safe nurturing environments.
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Taking action now will help us protect the next generation from the dangers of vaping and reinforce our commitment to fostering healthy positive development within our schools.
0:56:23
This is a health preservation bill, and I know everyone can get behind that.
0:56:29
That is why I'm asking for your support and for you to sign on to this legislation which is co prime sponsored by Council member Justin Brennan for a better healthier New York City.
0:56:40
In addition, I'd just like to shout out to my colleagues, Joe Borrelli and Christie Memorialato, for working so hard on their rezoning text amendments as well as securing an unprecedented amount of positive projects and initiatives for their districts, kudos to you.