Des Plaines proposing alternative penalties for kids caught with e-cigarettes

Des Plaines officials want to enact alternative penalties for kids caught with e-cigarettes or other tobacco-free nicotine products.

Under Illinois law, first-time offenders under age 18 found in possession of products such as e-cigarettes must pay a $25 fine or complete 15 hours of community service. The maximum penalty is a $100 fine and 30 hours of community service.

The city's proposal would allow a first-time offender enrolled as a full-time student in a Des Plaines school to enter a diversion and education program instead.

Maine Township High School District 207 requested the measure, as officials there have seen usage increase, Police Chief Bill Kushner said.

"At 15, you're invincible," Kushner said.

Recent studies indicate that alternative nicotine products pose significant health risks, officials said. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued a caution related to the products because their safety has not yet been fully researched, and it's unknown whether they may lead young people to try tobacco.

The proposed ordinance also would increase maximum fines from $500 to $750 for the sale of tobacco and alternative nicotine products to minors.

The council is expected to vote on the rule change during a meeting at 7 p.m. Monday at city hall, 1420 Miner St.