Although you have to be 21 to purchase any tobacco or e-cigarette product, Tempe is considering a total ban on the sale of flavored vape items. The city is asking for public feedback on that idea.
If passed, the ordinance would require any Tempe business that sells tobacco products to apply for a new sales license, prohibiting them from selling flavored vape products.
“They’re selling stuff that’s very attractive for kids to start vaping," said Tempe City Councilmember Joel Navarro, "when you talk about a candy cane flavored vape or a grape flavored vape.”
Navarro said Tempe parents have complained they’re too easily available.
“They’re noticing it at high schools especially, kids going in the bathroom [to vape]," he said. "It’s easy to hide, easy to vape, it doesn’t really leave a big smoke trail so to speak. Teachers have been noticing it for years. Parents have been noticing it and trying to get their kids off of it.”
The city will hold two public meetings on Oct. 25, one virtual and one in person. People can also fill out an online survey, which will be available through Oct. 30. After considering the feedback, Navarro said the council will likely vote on the ordinance early next year.
