State health data, local parents, and young people have all raised concerns about the growing number of vape, cannabis, and other substance retail stores—often called “smoke shops”—in our community as an emerging public health concern, especially for youth.
In response, CARE Coalition members and staff took a closer look. We surveyed local shops to document what products are being sold, how many stores there are, whether age-to-purchase signs are posted, and how products are being advertised—especially ads that might appeal to young people. These are all known factors that can influence youth use, public safety, and community health.
The results, conclusions, and recommendations from this effort are all included in the report linked below.