Over the past few years, the number of vape shops has grown exponentially. In many communities, it often feels there is a vape shop on every corner. These shops are not only selling vape products, but, as a result of the 2018 federal Farm Bill, also THC products. THC products operate in a gray area and there is no guarantee that those sold in these stores are safe.
 
I have heard from concerned constituents about the adverse health effects of vaping generally and the number of vape shops selling THC products. Some constituents have also been concerned about these products landing in the hands of our school-age children.  A Montgomery County grand jury report from 2025 found that many THC products were mislabeled and sold to teenagers. These findings are troubling. While Congress has finally closed the loophole that allowed for the sale of THC products, vape shops are still simply too close to where our children go to learn.
 
I will be introducing legislation to keep newly licensed vape shops at least 1,000 feet away from our K-12 schools. While tobacco products should not be sold to anyone under 21 in Pennsylvania, it is clear from the Montgomery County grand jury report that our teenagers are still purchasing products. My legislation will help reduce access to vape shops by ensuring that they cannot open near schools. While it may be argued that vape shops are an important part of our small business community, the health, safety and welfare of our children are paramount in comparison. 
 
I urge you to join me and co-sponsor this important legislation to keep tobacco and THC products out of the hands of teenagers. Students should not have easy access to these products and vape shops do not belong near our K-12 schools.