Key Points:
·Target Audience: U.S. State of Texas under 21 required to complete tobacco awareness training after being cited for possession.
·Program Features: Free, online, and includes an additional prevention course for grades 6–12.
·Purpose: Aims to reduce youth nicotine use and serve as an educational alternative to suspension.
2Firsts, September 10th - according to megadoctor news reported in September 9th, the U.S. Texas Department of State Health Services has launched a free online anti-tobacco and vaping program called ETAP (E-Cigarette and Tobacco Awareness Program). Developed with Texas State University, it is designed for Texans under 21 who are referred by courts or schools for possessing tobacco or e-cigarettes.
State law requires young people cited for tobacco possession to complete a DSHS-approved awareness course. ETAP also offers a separate prevention course for students in grades 6–12, which schools can incorporate into their health education efforts.
The program aims to provide knowledge and tools to help youth avoid or overcome nicotine addiction. It is available statewide at no cost and replaces a previous fee-based, in-person program.
