Smithtown Approves Restrictions On Vape Shops, Hookah Lounges

SMITHTOWN, NY - The Smithtown Town Council voted unanimously on Thursday to change the town zoning code affecting businesses that sell or use electronic cigarettes, vape pens, e-liquid nicotine, and other marijuana derivatives.

The change in the town code, which was passed by a 5-0 vote, would require Hookah lounges and vape stores to be within 1,500 feet of any park, playground, religious institution or school.

The initiative was led by Councilwoman Lisa Inzerillo and gained support from members of the community as several new vape shops began to open up along the main business districts throughout the town.

Town officials claim they began to receive letters and emails from parenting networks requesting some sort of restriction on businesses that sell or use vapes and e-cigarettes.

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• Town To Vote On New Restrictions For Vape Shops, Hookah Lounges

"We do want to limit the number of vape shops in town and their proximity to schools and other places where youth tend to congregate," Matthew Neebe, director of drug and alcohol counseling services at the town’s Horizons Counseling and Education Center, told Newsday.

However, not everyone agrees with this change.

"While there may be room for reasonable restrictions on where vape shops can open, this ordinance is so broad that the town appears to be simply trying to prevent any new stores from opening," Gregory Conley, president of the American Vaping Association, told Newsday.

What do you think? Do you agree with the new regulation? Let us know in the comments below.