The Denver City Council voted 11-1 on Monday night to ban the sale of flavored tobacco products within the city limits. The ordinance, sponsored by Council member Darrell Watson, includes e-cigarettes, menthol cigarettes, vapes, and other flavored nicotine and tobacco products. It will amend Denver’s municipal code, making it illegal for retailers to sell or deliver these products.
Advocates Cite Health Benefits and Reduced Targeting of Youth and People of Color
Advocates for the ban argue that it will keep nicotine products out of the hands of teenagers and young adults, leading to better health outcomes for the community. Watson noted that about 7% of Denver teenagers have admitted to vaping or using vape cigarettes, with the impact disproportionately affecting children and people of color.
“For decades, menthol cigarettes were created specifically to target African Americans and people of color because they knew the incentivizing through the flavoring increased the use of people of color,” Watson stated. “When we look at young people who are disproportionately impacted by these products, we cannot not do something, and tonight is a positive step towards listening to community and protecting our community health.”
Business Owners Warn of Potential Economic Losses and Store Closures
Opponents of the ban, including local convenience store owners, warn that it could destroy small businesses and lead to significant economic losses. Zack Shadi-Kingsley, who owns three convenience stores in Denver where nicotine products account for approximately 55% of inside sales, expressed concerns about the ordinance’s impact on his business.
“This would hurt,” Shadi-Kingsley said before the vote. “We spoke about moving out of the city, if this passes, selling all three of our locations in Denver and moving out of the city.”
Shadi-Kingsley anticipates that the ban will result in the removal of nearly all flavored tobacco products from his store shelves, leaving only a few traditional cigarette options available for customers. He also expects to lose out on sales from customers who typically purchase snacks or other items when visiting the store to buy tobacco products, as they may choose to shop in neighboring communities where flavored tobacco remains available.
Previous Attempts and Similar Bans in Other Colorado Communities
The Denver City Council attempted to pass a similar measure in 2021, but then-Mayor Michael Hancock vetoed it. However, other Colorado communities, including Boulder County and the City of Golden, have successfully implemented flavored tobacco bans.
As a vaping industry professional, it is crucial to acknowledge the importance of preventing youth access to nicotine products while also considering the potential economic impact on local businesses. Policymakers should carefully evaluate the effectiveness of existing regulations, such as age restrictions and enforcement measures, and consider targeted approaches that balance public health concerns with the rights of adult consumers and the viability of small businesses.
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