by Nick Delgado

Guam - You've seen them in local shops for years, bubblegum candy that resembles cigarettes and even comes in a cigarette pack. Vice Speaker B.J. Cruz is hoping to put a stop to that. He introduced Bill 267 that would prohibit the sale of candy cigarettes.

Cruz cites the American Journal of Preventative Medicine that young children played with candy cigarettes and made general references to smoking behaviors. Cruz adds the product plays a role in the development of children's attitudes toward smoking as an acceptable and favorable behavior. Cruz is hoping to prevent the youth from picking up the habit.

If signed into law, anyone who imports the candy will be guilty of a felony and may face up to five years in prison as well as a fine of up to $25,000.