Hampton Says Its Vape Shop Rules Failed, Now Wants State's Help
Hampton seeks state authority to close loopholes in its vape shop restrictions after local rules failed to stop retailers rebranding as convenience stores.Summary
Hampton city leaders say local restrictions on vape shops adopted in January have failed due to loopholes, and the City Council has unanimously approved a legislative request asking state lawmakers for more authority over tobacco and vape retailers. The January ordinance limited vape shop hours to 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and required a buffer distance from schools, day care centers, and other shops, but existing stores were grandfathered in and some retailers are evading distance rules by presenting themselves as convenience stores. Officials such as Bunting, Mayor Jimmy Gray, and resident Aaron Weaver have raised concerns about vape shop growth, citing examples like Payless Tobacco Plus off Settlers Landing Road. Hampton is also preparing for Virginia's retail cannabis market launching July 1, 2027, and seeking zoning and permitting rules before sales begin. Neighboring localities such as Hanover and Henrico counties are advancing similar cannabis ordinances with buffer and security requirements. At the state level, Attorney General Jay Jones announced a Regulated Products Enforcement Unit, and a new Retail Tobacco Permit requirement took effect October 1. Hampton's two-track approach aims to tighten the definition of convenience stores while establishing zoning rules ahead of cannabis sales.
(Source：Hoodline)
