Anti-Vaping Law In Fulton County Modeled After Milton Proposal

MILTON, GA -- Days after the City of Milton approved banning vape shops within the city limits, the Fulton County Commissioners voted in favor of new legislation to battle synthetic opioids and cannabinoids in the unincorporated areas of Fulton County. The resolution was introduced by District 2 Commissioner Bob Ellis with District 1 Commissioner Liz Hausmann and District 4 Commissioner Natalie Hall signing on as co-sponsors.

"Limiting the sale and distribution of vaping products and other synthetic opioids is a great step,” District 1Commissioner Bob Ellis said in a release. “Too many kids are using these products thinking it’s the ‘in’ thing to do and in the process ignoring the risks posed and the negative effects these substances have on their health.”

It is modeled after a proposal passed March 18 in the City of Milton which updated its code to, "in all zoning districts the following uses are considered objectionable and are prohibited: Fortune telling establishment, massage parlor, pool hall, escort and dating services, vape shops, and tattoo and body art or piercing establishment."

Gas stations, grocery stores and other businesses will still be permitted to sell vape products provided they do not exceed the 25 percent retail sales maximum, the Milton Herald reported. One vape shop, Vapor King on Ga. 9, currently operates within the city. The business will be permitted to continue normal operation, the Milton Herald said.

The Fulton County resolution will prohibit the sale, manufacture, and distribution of synthetic cannabinoids, opioids, and amphetamines within unincorporated Fulton County as well as prohibiting the use of similar substances that produce vapor or smoke. Fulton County joins Milton and other localities taking similar action by cracking down on the sale of synthetic opiates and marijuana at so-called “vape” shops.

The substances often have altered chemical makeup to get around state and federal regulations yet they may also mimic the effects of Schedule 1 substances. Many synthetic cannabinoids, opioids, and amphetamines remain highly addictive and can lead to the abuse of other substances.

The ordinance covers the remaining unincorporated portions of Fulton County along the Fulton Industrial Boulevard corridor. Violators could be subject to fine or imprisonment.