Baltimore cracks down on smoke shops near schools and parks with new law

Baltimore has introduced a new law to limit where smoke shops can operate in the city. Mayor Brandon Scott signed the bill on Tuesday, aiming to reduce the number of these businesses near sensitive areas. Officials hope this will protect young people from exposure to smoking and vaping. The new law bans smoke shops from opening within 750 feet of schools, parks, or recreation centres. Existing shops in these zones will have two years to close. Baltimore currently has at least 1,200 smoke shops, with many clustered in low-income areas.

City and state authorities have already taken action against some shops. Raids in recent months seized over 73 pounds of illegal cannabis and 18,000 untaxed tobacco products. Sheriff Sam Cogen recovered more than $370,000 worth of untaxed cannabis during these operations. Two people, including a 17-year-old, were arrested at an East Baltimore shop for selling illegal products.

Local business owners have raised concerns about the impact of smoke shops. Councilmember Zac Blanchard argued that too many in one area harm the appeal for other businesses. Annie Wright, who runs a daycare, wants fewer smoke shops nearby due to their potential influence on children. The law is part of a broader effort to reduce youth exposure to tobacco and cannabis. Authorities will continue enforcing regulations on existing shops while preventing new ones from opening in restricted zones. The two-year grace period gives current businesses time to adapt to the changes.