Virginia Newport News Proposes Ban on New Vape Shops Near Schools
The Newport News City Planning Commission has recommended that the city council approve a new ordinance that would prohibit new vape shops from opening within 2,000 feet of schools and childcare centers. The proposal, which passed the commission in a 5-3 vote, now moves to the city council for a public hearing on September 23.
Newport News Mayor Phillip Jones stated that the main goals of the new rules are to protect children from nicotine addiction and to prevent crime. “This is ultimately about public safety,” Jones explained. “How can we increase safety but also increase quality of life for our residents?”
If approved, the ordinance would also impose stricter rules on new vape shops, including banning drive-thrus and tinted windows. To be classified as a vape store under the regulations, 50% of all merchandise must be vape products. It’s important to note that these new rules would only apply to new stores or locations that have paused operations for at least 24 months; existing, legally operating vape shops could remain open, even if they are near schools.
- Read more: Baton Rouge, LA Imposes 500-Foot Buffer Zone for Vape Shop from Schools
- News source: Newport News could ban new vape shops near schools under a proposal
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