In preparation for the start of the start of the 88th Texas legislative session, four Drug-Free All Stars met with Representative Trent Ashby to share information on topics that directly impact high school students. Abby Bennett, Lufkin High School, spoke about alcohol-to-go, a recently made permanent law, and how it could impact youth across the state. Kimberly Lopez, Diboll High School, discussed the e-cigarette tax loophole and the issues she sees with e-cigarettes and youth in our area. John Flowers, Pineywoods Community Academy, provided data about tobacco prevention and cessation programs across the state and the importance of those programs. Hannah Spikes, Lufkin High School, shared information about the consequences of marijuana legalization, especially in relation to youth. The Coalition, Inc. would like to thank Representative Ashby for meeting with the All Stars and listening to the problems that affect them and other students in Texas.
Since 1988, The Coalition has focused on eliminating the use of harmful substances by affecting public policy, laws, attitudes, and behaviors, all in an effort to foster healthy life-long choices for the local community. The Drug-Free All Star program is funded by a grant from the Texas Department of Transportation. For more information about Drug-Free All Stars, contact Abby Baker at The Coalition at 936-634-9308.