Our Viewpoint

Look both ways before crossing the street. Don't run with scissors. Treat others how you want to be treated. All important lessons for our kids as we teach them to be good adults and keep them safe.

This week, the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) announced its intent to restrict the sale of flavored e-cigarettes (see story on page 9).

In 1971, cigarette advertisements were banned from radio and television. Additional restrictions came in 1998, including a ban on advertising and marketing that targeted youth. While not directed solely at teens, many e-cigarette advertisements are coloruful, trendy and eye-catching. It's good marketing from a business standpoint, but can end up sending the wrong message to kids.

As you'll read in the article, research shows that 30% of middle school students have tried vaping and 70% of kids age 12 to 17 who started using e-cigarettes say they do it because of the flavors. It's shocking the prevalance of vaping among teens. It's a problem, and one that needs to be taken seriously and addressed.

The state's first attempt on a ban in October was blocked by a Ravalli County judge. Though the ban may seem aggressive to some, the fact remains that vaping illnesses and even deaths continue, with no clear cause. The state and even the federal government need to step in. Good (or bad) habits form at a young age, and we should do what we can to keep our kids safe.