Flavored Vape Ban Continues to Spark Discussion in Fargo
On May 13, the FMWF Chamber facilitated a roundtable discussion, featuring many business owners sharing their viewpoints and discussing how the ban would harm the local economy.
FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – The proposed ban of flavored nicotine products in the city of Fargo continues to have supporters and detractors.
Business owners and city officials met on May 13 in a roundtable to discuss that possible ordinance – with strong expressions of opinions all around.
Zach Johnson of Sports Vape in Fargo has spoken out on this issue in the past, stating, among other reasons, that such a restriction won’t prevent flavored products from falling into the wrong hands and will deprive the city of much-needed revenue.
“I think it’d be shortsighted to be taking that away. What are we replacing that with? Where is that tax revenue coming from?” he asked.
Some commissioners at the roundtable echoed his sentiments.
“You’d be taking away businesses, taking away jobs,” said Commissioner Michelle Turnberg. “It’s a legal right of citizens. I think it’s absolutely ridiculous to have a flavor ban.”
Multiple convenience store and smoke shop owners were also invited to this meeting, thankful for the chance to share their perspectives in a public forum.
Health advocates did push back on the legality of some of the products in question, and other commissioners reiterated the ordinance’s focus on protecting consumers under the age of 18.
Still, folks on Johnson’s side of the fence expressed optimism they could find a collective way forward that doesn’t involve completely outlawing such vapes.
“I think as long as we can all work together, and come together as a community should, to protect our youth and our minors, I think we’re going to see some really positive things come from this meeting,” said Johnson.
The FMWF Chamber said they will continue to work to mediate a compromise between businesses in Fargo and city officials to put together a final ordinance that works for both sides.
