Hancock Vetoes Ban On Flavored Tobacco In Denver

DENVER, CO — Mayor Michael Hancock vetoed Friday the flavored tobacco ban in Denver.

The ban, which was approved by City Council Monday in an 8-3 vote, would have banned the sale of flavored vaping products, chewing tobacco, hookah and menthol cigarettes.

Proponents of the ban said it will curb youth tobacco use, but opponents say it will hurt small businesses.

In a letter to the City Council, Hancock said he believes such a ban should be more targeted.

“I share with the sponsors of this ordinance the desire and goal to reduce youth nicotine use in our city, especially youth vaping, which has become increasingly prevalent," the mayor's letter read. "Previously, we’ve taken steps together to reduce youth nicotine use, including raising the purchase age to 21, instituting a new tobacco retail store license and enhancing enforcement efforts. However well intentioned, this ordinance falls short.

"We can work on this in a more collaborative way and we can also move to enhance our existing regulatory framework, in addition to pursuing a broader strategy by acting state-wide or at least regionally. The health of our children is of critical importance – my goal is not to stop this conversation with this veto, my goal is to broaden it.”