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Paterson youths urge council to limit vape shops near schools; council says ordinance is in committee
Summary
Dozens of Paterson students and local prevention groups told the City Council on June 12 that flavored and disposable vapes are widely available to minors and asked for zoning, licensing and enforcement changes. Council members said a draft ordinance exists and is being reviewed by legal and committee before coming to the full council.
Dozens of Paterson students and community advocates told the City Council on June 12 that vape shops and unregulated flavored products are easy for minors to obtain and asked the city to adopt zoning, licensing and inspection rules to reduce youth access.
"There should be a law passed that requires vape shops to be located at least 200 feet away from schools," said Basar Gillespie, an 18‑year‑old Eastside High School student speaking for the Voice and Choice Youth Coalition and related local groups. Several other youth speakers described finding vapes near schools, in parks and on buses.
The presentations included personal accounts, local observations and policy proposals. Daniel…
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