Minnesota: Sherburne County Bans Flavored Vapes, Raises Clerk Age to 18
The Sherburne County Board of Commissioners has voted 3-2 to enact a significant overhaul of its tobacco licensing ordinance, aiming to curb youth vaping and nicotine addiction. The new regulations, which will take effect on July 1, 2026, specifically target convenience stores in the county’s townships. Key provisions include a ban on the sale of flavored vape products in these locations and raising the minimum age for employees selling tobacco from 16 to 18.
Commissioners Andrew Hulse, Raeanne Danielowski, and Gary Gray voted in favor of the changes, citing urgent pleas from school officials, parents, and health advocates who described a rising tide of youth addiction fueled by brightly packaged, flavored products. “I don’t see too many 35-year-olds buying tutti-frutti grape vapes,” Commissioner Gray remarked, emphasizing that such flavors clearly target children.
The decision followed a contentious public hearing where business owners warned that the ordinance would harm small township retailers and create staffing challenges by restricting teen employees. Commissioners Gregg Felber and Brad Schumacher opposed the measure, arguing it creates an uneven playing field since flavored vapes remain legal in neighboring cities like St. Cloud and Becker. Felber contended that the government shouldn’t “parent” these choices and noted that flavored vapes can account for up to 30% of tobacco sales for some businesses.
Despite the opposition, the majority held that protecting youth health took precedence. Commissioner Hulse pointed out the irony of allowing minors to sell products they are legally prohibited from possessing. “If these are adult products for adults… why do we let children sell them?” he asked. While 16- and 17-year-olds can still work in stores selling tobacco, they will no longer be permitted to handle the transactions. The ordinance also includes updated compliance procedures, a 500-foot buffer zone from schools for tobacco shops, and a ban on indoor sampling.
Commissioner Danielowski expressed hope that the state would eventually take up similar measures but affirmed that the county could act now to protect youth. The delayed effective date of July 2026 is intended to give businesses time to adjust to the new regulatory landscape.
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