ALAMOSA — The Alamosa County Commissioners signed a proclamation declaring youth vaping to be a public health crisis on Tuesday morning.

The document recognizes that tobacco use remains the leading cause of death in the U.S. and Colorado.

Also, electronic smoking-device use has increased at an alarming rate. In 2017, ESD use among San Luis Valley was estimated at 49.2%, higher than the state average of 44.2 %. Furthermore, vaping was recently linked to a new condition known as Acute- Onset Lung Disorder. 

The board heard a presentation from AHS students, Reese Canaan, Chenoa Candy, Kaidence Boehm and Jaimey Turner. As members of the SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions) Council, each addressed the difficulties that students face when it comes to peer pressure and advertising campaigns. The group was in attendance to show their support for the measure.

The proclamation cites the Colorado Public Health Act of 2008 as a basis that requires the Public Health Department Board to promote policies that are deemed necessary for a healthy community. “I wholeheartedly support this measure,” said Commissioner Helen Sigmond. She went on to express her concern over the issues and health risks that vaping is causing for Valley youth. Commissioners Michael Yohn and Darius Allen also expressed their full support for the measure.

The county is hopeful the act will help to foster change within local government policies and the sale of tobacco-related products.