Surrey councillor declares war on vaping
Surrey Councillor Gordon Hepner is proposing stricter regulations on vaping sales to address health concerns, particularly among youth.Summary
Surrey Councillor Gordon Hepner has introduced a motion to significantly restrict the sale of vaping products within the city, citing growing health concerns, especially among young people. Hepner observed widespread vaping among youth near schools and elsewhere, emphasizing the potential for nicotine addiction and its impact on developing brains. He highlighted the negative effects on concentration, learning, mood, and stress regulation, as well as the risk of serious lung diseases. The proposed motion directs city staff to develop the most restrictive legally permissible regulations, including a new business license for retailers, limitations on where products can be sold (potentially restricting sales to those 19 and over and prohibiting sales in convenience stores and gas stations), and a city-wide ban on vaping in youth-sensitive areas like schools and parks, with clear consequences for violations. Mayor Brenda Locke anticipates a debate on the motion at the next council meeting on February 23.
(Source：Surrey Now-Leader)
