HI SR177

Urges the Department of Education to disseminate information to educate students and teachers about the smoking epidemic and raise awareness about electronic smoking devices.

Directs the Department of Education to reconsider punishment such as suspension and expulsion as ineffective safeguards against student smoking.

Requires disciplinary actions for smoking to include conferences with administrators and parents or legal guardians, along with counseling on tobacco prevention and health education about smoking's adverse effects on youth.

Notes that 48 percent of high school students and 31 percent of middle school students have tried e-cigarettes according to Hawaii Department of Health data.

Mandates certified copies of the resolution be transmitted to the Chairperson of the Board of Education and Superintendent of Education.