During a recent government meeting, the focus shifted to the pressing issue of flavored tobacco and vaping in Oregon, highlighted by a presentation from members of the Happy Valley Youth Council. Chief of Staff Tiffany Charmin introduced youth representatives Dominic Pinnovi and David Charing, who shared their concerns about the impact of flavored tobacco products on their peers.

The youth council, formed as an advisory board to the Happy Valley City Council, has been actively addressing the negative effects of flavored tobacco since early 2023. In February 2024, the council adopted a formal stance against the sale of flavored tobacco statewide. Pinnovi emphasized the alarming statistics from Clackamas County, revealing that 12.5% of 11th graders reported using e-cigarettes in 2022, with a staggering 72.5% of those users starting with flavored products.

The youth council organized a town hall in November to educate their peers about the dangers of vaping, featuring presentations from Clackamas County Health. They highlighted how tobacco companies use appealing marketing strategies to attract young consumers, framing their campaign as a fight for the health and well-being of future generations.

Charing reinforced the urgency of the issue, citing the detrimental effects of nicotine addiction on youth mental health, academic performance, and social relationships. He called for support in banning flavored tobacco products, asserting that the youth of today should be seen as \"guardians of tomorrow.\"

The meeting concluded with an invitation for further discussion on potential legislative action against flavored tobacco at the upcoming November board meeting, as the youth council seeks to safeguard the health of their community and promote a healthier future for Oregon's youth.