Albany County announces "Tobacco Prevention Package"

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -As school starts back up, the Albany County Legislature is cracking down on vaping with its "Tobacco Prevention Package". Included are local laws and a grant that hopes to better hold smoke shops accountable when selling to minors and strengthen substance-use education in schools.

The legislation would create a new retail license for tobacco and vape shops. It would be different from permits that already exist. "The Department of Health (DOH) will better be able to monitor the distribution of harmful tobacco products as well as strengthen compliance," said Joanne Cunningham, County Chair.

The DOH has already been checking in with tobacco and vape stores to make sure they are not selling to minors. Local law would be stricter with both permits and licenses. "This (new law) allows us to revoke the County’s license with just one violation," explained Dr. Iman Simmonds.

Any new smoke shops would also be forced to be at least one-thousand feet away from schools.

In addition to the legislation, County leaders are investing in substance-use education. $150,000 is available for schools and other groups to apply for the Prevention and Cessation Grant Program by emailing Elena.Cenko@albanycountyny.gov. "What it's all about is trying to encourage and incentivize outside organizations to develop anti-vaping, anti-addiction, anti-tobacco programs targeting young people in the schools," described Cunningham.

The Tobacco Prevention Package, which includes the QUIT Act and Concealed Vape Legislation, is expected to be introduced to the entire legislature on Monday, September 9.

Officials are also warning parents of vapes disguised as school supplies. Albany County will be hosting what they call a resource event on September 30; showcasing a model bedroom and the places kids may hide drugs and other dangers. It is being held inside the Cahill Room at 112 State Street, Albany.