Hillsborough County commissioners have taken a bold step towards ensuring the safety and well-being of our children. A new ordinance, passed unanimously on a Wednesday, will ban new vape shops from opening within 500 feet of any public or private school. This decision prioritizes the health of our youth and demonstrates a commitment to addressing the vaping epidemic.

The Scope of the Problem: Vape Shops Lurking Near Schools

While existing vape shops will not be affected by the ordinance, a recent study conducted by county staff revealed a staggering 200 vape shops within 500 feet of a school. This alarming statistic prompted Hillsborough Commissioner Michael Owen to propose the ordinance. He expressed his concern over the proximity of vape shops to local schools and the potential impact on our children’s health.

Commissioner Owen’s Perspective: Balancing Business and Children’s Health

“I’m not against businesses, I want businesses to thrive,” Owen told FOX 13. “But, when it comes to the health and protection of our children, when you listen to the CDC, when you listen to our own attorney general, we see that this is an epidemic.”

He emphasized that vape advertising is often the first thing kids see when they leave school, making it an urgent issue to address.

The Age Barrier: Teens Still Finding a Way to Vape

Despite the legal age to enter a vape shop in Hillsborough County being 21, Commissioner Owen noted that teens still manage to get their hands on these products. A study found that over 60% of Hillsborough County high school students have either tried vaping or currently engage in vaping.

The Consequences: Health Risks and Long-term Effects

The rising number of teenagers vaping is a cause for concern as it poses significant health risks. The CDC has reported that vaping can lead to severe lung injuries and even death in some cases. Furthermore, nicotine addiction can have long-term consequences on the developing brains of young people.

The Solution: Implementing New Ordinance to Protect Our Youth

The new Hillsborough ordinance aims to create a safer environment for our children by preventing new vape shops from opening near schools. While it may not be a total solution, it is a significant step towards addressing the vaping epidemic and ensuring a healthier future for our youth.

Conclusion: A Step in the Right Direction for Our Children’s Health

The new Hillsborough ordinance is a testament to the commitment of local authorities to protect the well-being of our children. By preventing new vape shops from opening near schools, we can create a safer environment that prioritizes our youth’s health over business interests.

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FAQs

1. What is the new Hillsborough ordinance about?
   The new Hillsborough ordinance prevents new vape shops from opening within 500 feet of any public or private school.
2. Will existing vape shops be affected by this ordinance?
   No, existing vape shops will not be affected by the new ordinance.
3. Why was this ordinance proposed?
   Commissioner Michael Owen proposed the ordinance in response to a study that found 200 vape shops within 500 feet of a school, posing potential health risks to children.
4. What are the health risks associated with vaping for teenagers?
   Vaping can lead to severe lung injuries, nicotine addiction, and even death in some cases, especially for developing brains of young people.
5. Is the new ordinance a complete solution to the vaping epidemic?
   While the new ordinance is not a total solution, it is a significant step towards addressing the vaping epidemic and protecting our youth’s health.