Surrey council wages war on vaping
Surrey council approved a motion to strengthen regulations on vaping product sales, citing health concerns, especially among youth.Summary
Surrey council unanimously approved Councillor Gordon Hepner’s motion to increase restrictions on the sale of vaping products within the city. Hepner argued that vaping poses a “serious health concern,” particularly for young people whose brains are still developing, leading to potential nicotine addiction and negative impacts on concentration, mood, and stress regulation. The motion directs city staff to develop a bylaw package with measures such as requiring specific business licenses for vapour product retailers, restricting sales to those 19 and older, prohibiting sales in convenience stores and gas stations, and establishing a city-wide ban on vaping in youth-sensitive areas like schools and parks. Councillors cited statistics on non-compliance with federal legislation and highlighted the risks of delayed brain development, mental health issues, and potential gateway to other substance use. Mayor Locke emphasized the marketing tactics used to attract young people to vaping products.
(Source：North Delta Reporter)
