During a recent government meeting, officials addressed growing concerns regarding the regulation of vape shops and their impact on youth. The discussions highlighted the legal threshold for THC content in products, which is set at 0.3%. However, it was noted that some local vape shops are reportedly violating this limit, raising alarms about compliance and public health.

A key point of concern was the sale of vape products to minors. The chief of police confirmed that the minimum age for purchasing vape products is 21. This issue resonated with several community members, including local business owners who expressed their commitment to preventing underage sales. Jerry Burnett, owner of a local shop, emphasized his efforts to card customers and ensure that minors are not served, stating his desire to provide a legal and regulated alternative to illegal sources.

Another shop owner, Mitch Layman, voiced support for regulatory measures while advocating for the ability to maintain business operations in the downtown area. He highlighted the importance of managing the sale of CBD products, which are regulated differently than tobacco.

The meeting concluded with officials planning to consult legal teams to clarify regulatory language and ensure compliance with state laws. The discussions underscored a community-wide commitment to addressing the challenges posed by vape shops, particularly regarding youth access and product safety. Further developments on this issue are expected as the commission continues to evaluate regulations.