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SAULT STE. MARIE, Mich. —The Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians has enacted a law to prohibit use and possession of electronic cigarettes by adolescents, prohibit the sale of e-cigarettes and their use in certain locations.

The new law was put into effect due to health concerns and their appeal to teens.

“This Tribal Code change was developed by Legal and the Tribal Court with intent of protecting our children,” Vice Chairman DJ Hoffman said. “It’s an excellent example of our board and staff working together in a positive manner.”

The Sault Tribe Board of Directors approved the resolution below at its Oct. 15 meeting:

Amending Tribal Code Chapter 71: Criminal Offenses Limiting Electronic Cigarette

WHEREAS, tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes, causes numerous diseases and contain highly addictive nicotine; and

WHEREAS, adolescents are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of nicotine; and

WHEREAS, adolescents use of electronic cigarettes has risen according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and the Food and Drug Administration; and

WHEREAS, electronic cigarettes are being marketed in ways that appeal to adolescents; and

WHEREAS, the danger of electronic cigarettes to adults is not yet fully understood; and

WHEREAS, the Board of Directors desires to limit the use and availability of electronic cigarettes on tribal lands for both adults and adolescents due to health concerns.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that Tribal Code Chapter 71: Criminal Offenses is amended as attached to prohibit use and possession of electronic cigarettes by adolescents, prohibit the sale of electronic cigarettes to any individual and to prohibit the use in certain locations. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Tribal Administration is hereby directed to stop all sales of electronic cigarettes and related products.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that Kewadin Casinos Gaming Authority is requested to stop all sales of electronic cigarettes and related paraphernalia.