A Colorado City Passed A Flavored Tobacco Ban That Will Take Effect in 2026

A Colorado city passed a flavored tobacco ban that will take effect in 2026

The mayor of Denver, Colorado, signed a bill to ban the sale and circulation of flavored tobacco and nicotine products in the city, which will take effect in 2026.

According to Denvergazette on December 19, Mike Johnston, mayor of Denver, Colorado, officially signed a bill passed by the Denver City Council on Monday (16th) to ban the sale and circulation of flavored tobacco and nicotine products in Denver City and County.

The bill was passed by the City Council with 11 votes in favor and 1 vote against, stipulating that no retail tobacco store shall "sell, offer for sale, give away, exchange, deliver or supply any flavored tobacco product or sample thereof." Mayor Johnston said he would support the measure if the bill passes.

In a press statement, the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids said it showed "the city of Denver is prepared to put the well-being of youth and the community at large ahead of the profits of the tobacco industry."

Opponents say a sweeping ban could threaten small businesses, lead to job losses, reduce the city's sales tax revenues, and increase crime in Denver neighborhoods.

The law will take effect after 90 days to allow the Department of Public Health and Environment to educate businesses and encourage voluntary compliance. The Denver Health Department said the law would not take effect until 2026.