On May 3rd, the Hillsborough commission in Tampa, Florida unanimously passed a law that prohibits the opening of new electronic cigarette shops within 500 feet (152 meters) of any public or private school.
It is worth noting that the new regulation will not affect existing e-cigarette shops.
A recent study by Hillsborough staff has found that within a 500-foot radius of all schools in the county, there are a total of 200 electronic cigarette shops.
After learning of this study's data, Michael Owen of Hillsborough proposed the regulation. He acknowledged that this is not a perfect solution, but he was shocked by the abundance of e-cigarette shops near local schools.
Owen stated, "I am not against e-cigarette stores, I hope they thrive.
However, he said that e-cigarette advertising is the first thing some children see after leaving school.
This concerns the health and protection of our children.
Although Hillsborough requires customers to be at least 21 years old to enter an e-cigarette store, teenagers have found other ways to obtain electronic cigarettes.
A study has shown that over 60% of Hillsborough high school students have either tried or are currently using electronic cigarettes.
It has been reported that Hillsborough has reached a settlement with electronic cigarette manufacturer JUUL, resulting in Hillsborough receiving a multi-million dollar settlement.
Further reading:
Hillsborough County schools in Florida to receive millions in compensation from JUUL lawsuit.
References:
A new ordinance in Hillsborough prohibits the opening of vape shops near schools.
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