U.S. State of Texas Launches Free Online Anti-Vaping Program for Youth

Sep.10
U.S. State of Texas Launches Free Online Anti-Vaping Program for Youth
U.S. State of Texas has introduced a free, statewide online program (ETAP) for individuals under 21 referred for tobacco or e-cigarette possession, offering education on addiction and prevention as an alternative to disciplinary action.

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.

 

Product | 2× “2+10” configuration, rated 36,000 puffs — VOZOL launches NEON PLUG MAX
Product | 2× “2+10” configuration, rated 36,000 puffs — VOZOL launches NEON PLUG MAX
VOZOL has listed a new product, NEON PLUG MAX, on its official website, featuring dual 2 ml prefilled pods and dual 10 ml refill bottles (24 ml total), a claimed maximum of 36,000 puffs, and two-flavour switching. The device was previously shown at InterTabac 2025 and was listed by the UK MHRA in March 2025; however, as of publication it was not yet available on overseas retail sites.
Oct.22 by 2FIRSTS.ai
BAT accused of “utter hypocrisy” over efforts to dilute Zambia’s tobacco bill
BAT accused of “utter hypocrisy” over efforts to dilute Zambia’s tobacco bill
The Guardian reports that British American Tobacco urged Zambian ministers to drop or delay ad and sponsorship bans and to soften a draft tobacco bill by shrinking health warnings, easing flavour restrictions and lowering penalties. Critics said the stance is hypocritical given similar rules apply in the UK.
Nov.13
The Spanish Nicotine Pouches Association (ABN) is officially launched, calling for a clear regulatory framework grounded in scientific evidence
The Spanish Nicotine Pouches Association (ABN) is officially launched, calling for a clear regulatory framework grounded in scientific evidence
The Spanish Nicotine Pouches Association (ABN) has launched in Madrid, uniting more than 40 companies to call for science-based, proportionate regulation. The group warns that a proposed 0.99 mg nicotine cap could amount to a de facto ban and introduces new voluntary industry standards in response.
Dec.03
UK Retailers Urge Government to Include Age-Verification Tech in Tobacco and Vapes Bill
UK Retailers Urge Government to Include Age-Verification Tech in Tobacco and Vapes Bill
UK convenience retailers have written to several government ministers urging the adoption of age-verification technology in the Tobacco and Vapes Bill. The letter, led by Atul Sodha of Londis, Harefield, and co-signed by 29 other shop owners, calls for a “triple lock” approach combining manufacturer tech, retailer vigilance, and user-level verification to curb youth access.
Nov.28 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Tasmania, Australia Will Introduce New Laws Targeting Illegal Vape and Tobacco Retailers
Tasmania, Australia Will Introduce New Laws Targeting Illegal Vape and Tobacco Retailers
Tasmania will introduce new laws next year to tackle the illegal trade in tobacco and vapes. The legislation will strengthen penalties, allow inspectors to issue on-the-spot fines and shut down non-compliant retailers, and enhance coordination between police and health authorities.
Nov.11 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Thailand to Establish Inter-Agency Committee to Strengthen E-Cigarette Enforcement
Thailand to Establish Inter-Agency Committee to Strengthen E-Cigarette Enforcement
The Thai government will establish an inter-agency committee under the Prime Minister’s Office to address the rapid spread of e-cigarettes among youth. Deputy Prime Minister Sophon Sarum said the fragmented enforcement across multiple laws and agencies has created gaps. The new mechanism will coordinate enforcement, report directly to the Cabinet, and propose legal amendments if current laws are insufficient.
Nov.20 by 2FIRSTS.ai