Denver Voters to Decide Flavored Tobacco Ban Repeal

Denver voters will soon decide whether to uphold or repeal a city council ban on flavored tobacco products, following the certification of over 17,000 signatures from a coalition of vape shop owners. The ban, enacted in March after an 11-1 council vote in December 2024, aims to curb youth access to addictive products, with advocates arguing it protects public health. Opponents, represented by the coalition 'Citizen Power!', contend that the ban unfairly targets adult consumers and threatens local businesses. The Denver Elections Division confirmed the petition was sufficient, with the ballot likely to appear in the upcoming November election. Council members and public health advocates warn that overturning the ban could lead to increased youth addiction, while business owners claim it could harm small enterprises and push consumers to neighboring areas. The final decision on the election date remains with the city council, who may opt for a special election before November.