From D.A.R.E. to Vaping: Texas’ New Youth Anti-Tobacco Program Explained

Growing up in Wisconsin, there were always two massive signs in the middle school gymnasium and cafeteria: got milk? and the D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) campaign to help keep kids away from drug abuse.

I remember thinking, as a child, why I would ever want to eat drugs in the first place... so I don't know if those campaigns really had a strong effect on me. Regardless, these anti-drug and anti-smoking messages were highly impactful on schools across the country for decades.

Well, the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) has recently launched a brand new online program, and this one is targeted towards e-cigarettes and tobacco.

What is ETAP in Texas?

ETAP (E-Cigarette and Tobacco Awareness Program) was a creation from DSHS and Texas State University's School Safety Center to provide the tools and knowledge for young Texans in avoiding harmful smoking and vaping products.

The program will also assist with helping youths showing signs of addiction get off the dangerous path.

Is ETAP a Required Course in Texas?

The anti-tobacco and vaping program will be required for all Texans under 21 years of age by their school or a court system who have been found in possession of tobacco products.

There is an optional course that ETAP provides for students in grades 6-12. This offers additional content on the harmful effects of smoking and vaping as well as the signs that lead to an addiction to tobacco/nicotine.

ETAP programs will be completely free of charge for all schools and parents. It will replace the previous Texas youth Tobacco Awareness Program that was not available online and often required a fee.