Schools Install Vape Detectors in Bathrooms—With Funding From Juul
In response to the rising epidemic of teenage vaping, schools across the United States have begun installing vape detectors in bathrooms. Surprisingly, many of these efforts are funded by Juul Labs, the same company that has been at the center of controversy for allegedly targeting teens with its e-cigarette products.
School administrators hope these detectors will curb the vaping problem, which has surged among middle and high school students in recent years. Vape detectors, which can sense vapor and alert staff to its presence, are becoming a common tool in school bathrooms where traditional smoke detectors are ineffective. According to reports, dozens of school districts have installed the technology to monitor student activity more closely and reduce the growing health risks associated with vaping.
The funding from Juul has raised eyebrows, given the company’s role in fueling the teen vaping crisis. In previous years, Juul faced lawsuits and regulatory crackdowns for marketing tactics that allegedly appealed to younger audiences. Critics are questioning whether Juul’s funding of these detectors is a genuine effort to curb vaping or simply a public relations move to rebuild its image.
Some school officials argue that despite the controversy, the funding helps address a serious issue. “We need every tool available to protect our students from vaping,” said one school administrator. “The detectors are proving effective in reducing vaping incidents, and we’re seeing fewer cases in monitored areas.”
However, public health advocates warn that accepting money from Juul could create conflicts of interest. They believe that relying on a company with such a problematic history might undermine schools’ efforts to combat the very issue Juul contributed to.
