HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0593.059 2022-2024 p/Gounci l
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From: Kealoha Madriaga
Sent: Tuesday,January 09, 2024 10:03 AM -<
To: Council Testimony m
Subject: Support Bill 102 v =ter
I, Keshia Madriaga, strongly support Bill 102 to end flavored tobacco products in Hawaii (ounty.
Flavored tobacco products, such as menthol cigarettes and fruit-flavored e-cigarettes, are
enticing and attractive to young people. Studies have shown that flavored tobacco products
make it easier for young people to start smoking, and once they start, it becomes incredibly
difficult for them to quit. This is particularly troubling as tobacco use is the leading cause of
preventable death and disease in our country.
It is crucial that we take action to protect our young people from the harmful effects of tobacco
use. Banning flavored tobacco products is a step in the right direction towards achieving this
goal. By removing these enticing products from the market, we can prevent young people like
myself from ever starting to use tobacco in the first place.
I urge our policymakers to recognize the urgent need for action and to support Bill 102. By
ending the sale of flavored tobacco products, we can protect our young people, improve
public health, and create a brighter future for our community. Let's work together to make our
island a place where healthy living is prioritized and where our young people are not lured into
a dangerous and addictive habit.
Mahalo!
Comm. No , b 5 I
Ref. To: AI(t11IICI
1 Ref. Date. .; 1 ,t 2024