Brownsville City Council proposes ordinance to regulate new vape shop locations

The City of Brownsville is taking significant steps to regulate the establishment of new vape shops within the city limits. During a recent Planning and Zoning meeting held on February 6, 2025, city officials discussed a proposed ordinance aimed at controlling where these businesses can operate, particularly in relation to schools, religious institutions, and hospitals.

The proposed ordinance would amend the Unified Development Code (UDC) to prohibit new vape shops from opening within 300 feet of a religious assembly, educational service establishments, or hospitals. If approved by the city commission, the distance could extend to 1,000 feet from public or private schools. Existing vape shops would be exempt from these regulations, allowing them to continue operating without interruption.

Currently, there are no regulations governing vape shops in Brownsville, making this ordinance a crucial step in addressing community concerns about youth access to vaping products. The ordinance defines an e-cigarette retailer as any establishment that specializes in selling electronic cigarette products, including vapes and e-hookahs. It also specifies that businesses deriving less than 50% of their gross receipts from these products would not be affected by the new regulations.

City officials noted that similar regulations are being considered at the state level, with three pending bills in the Texas legislature that aim to provide similar controls for other cities. The proposed local ordinance is designed to align with these state efforts, reflecting a growing recognition of the need for stricter oversight of vaping products.

The discussion also highlighted broader concerns about the availability of various substances to minors, with some commissioners urging further exploration of regulations beyond just nicotine products. The ordinance is seen as a starting point for addressing these issues, with the potential for future amendments to tackle other health hazards associated with vaping and related products.

The commission unanimously approved the motion to recommend the ordinance to the city commission, marking a proactive approach to public health and safety in Brownsville. As the city moves forward, residents can expect continued discussions on how best to protect the community, particularly its youth, from the risks associated with vaping.