Richmond officials are tightening regulations on smoke shops, with 51 of 83 operating without valid licenses. This move aims to address public health concerns, especially in communities heavily populated by Hispanic and Black residents. A moratorium was implemented to pause new tobacco retail licenses while developing regulations. Concerns have been raised around illegal activities in some shops, such as selling cannabis and to minors. The city seeks to refine its approach as it considers a final draft of regulations this summer, addressing community pressure for action.
The boom in tobacco retailers prompted an outcry from the public, leading the council to adopt a moratorium on issuing new tobacco retail licenses last April.
Planning Manager Avery Stark described the pervasive issue of unchecked smoke shops as a state-wide epidemic that requires regulatory attention.
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