Missouri City is taking a significant step towards regulating smoke and vape shops by proposing a temporary moratorium on new establishments. During a recent city council meeting, officials discussed the need for this moratorium to address public health concerns related to the proliferation of these businesses.

Currently, Missouri City has about 20 smoke and vape shops, a number that exceeds nearby cities like Sugar Land and Pearland. The proposed moratorium aims to pause new applications for smoke and vape shops while the city develops a new ordinance to better manage their presence. This move is in response to growing concerns about the impact of these shops on community health and safety.

City officials highlighted that the moratorium would apply to commercial properties selling smoking-related products, including cigarettes, cigars, and cannabis. The goal is to mitigate the density of these shops, particularly along major thoroughfares like Highway 6 and 2234, where many are currently located. The moratorium is designed to last for 90 days, during which time the city plans to draft and propose a new ordinance.

The council emphasized the importance of this initiative, citing studies from the CDC and NIH that link proximity to smoking shops with increased difficulty in quitting smoking. The next steps include a public hearing scheduled for July 31, followed by a special meeting on August 11, where the council will consider adopting the moratorium.

As Missouri City moves forward with this initiative, officials are hopeful that the new regulations will create a healthier environment for residents and curb the rise of smoke and vape shops in the area.