Published in the September 5, 2019 edition.
BOSTON — Representative Paul Brodeur of Melrose announced on Friday, August 30, the launch of a new vape buy-back program in which he challenged vape manufacturers to compensate school districts for the retail value of the confiscated vaping products they collect. School districts in turn would use the funds for education, enforcement, and prevention.
“Vape manufacturers say time and time again that they want to prevent youth from using their products, but they haven’t taken real responsibility for the growing trend of teen vaping,” Brodeur said. “Participating in this buy-back program is a clear message that these companies are not interested in the profits they derive from selling their products to teens.”
Rep. Brodeur launched a website to detail the provisions of the program and provide the public an opportunity to demonstrate their support by signing a petition calling on vape manufacturers to participate. Brodeur indicated that he will be actively recruiting supporters of this initiative in the weeks ahead.
“I’m a father of two teenagers who are facing this epidemic every day. As a policy maker I am deeply concerned about the health of all of our children,” Rep. Brodeur said. “I’ve been in the fight against big tobacco for years, and this is our latest challenge.”
Rep. Brodeur encourages parents, teachers, and community organizations to review the buy-back program terms at www.vapebuyback.org and to reach out to him with any questions.
