Illinois teens are about to receive a $24 million boost in their fight against the allure of vaping, stemming from a settlement with the electronic cigarette giant Juul Labs Inc. The funds are allocated to support various initiatives including the Truth Initiative’s efforts to educate and help young individuals quit nicotine through several established programs, stated Attorney General Kwame Raoul in a recent announcement.
Calling the rise in e-cigarette use among youth "an ongoing epidemic," Attorney General Raoul highlighted the persistence of flavored vaping products tempting teens across the state and nation. According to the Illinois Attorney General's Office, "The sale of flavored vaping products continues to be a problem throughout the state and nation," and programs like the EX Program are key to "empowering them to live healthier, vape-free lives."
Young minds in Illinois classrooms are also set for a new educational experience as the "Vaping: Know the Truth" curriculum will be introduced to schools in collaboration with Kaiser Permanente and the American Heart Association, delivered through EVERFI. In a statement made by the Illinois Attorney General's Office, Kathy Crosby, CEO and President of Truth Initiative, said, “This settlement with Juul presents a pivotal opportunity to redirect funds toward evidence-based programs that empower young people to quit vaping and prevent future addiction.”
The efforts of Attorney General Raoul in tackling youth e-cigarette use and holding manufacturers accountable have been long-standing, commencing with a lawsuit in 2019 against Juul Labs Inc. After a partnered effort with six other attorneys general, Raoul's office secured a hefty settlement sum of $462 million, with Illinois' share playing a significant role in funding the state's anti-vaping initiatives.
