Tobacco Regulation Updates
Limiting Youth Access to Flavored Tobacco Products
Overview
Philadelphia passed local legislation restricting the sale of flavored tobacco and vape products to reduce accessibility among youth.
Key Highlights
- Bans most flavored vaping products, unless sold in adult-only vape shops
- Bans flavored cigars, cigarillos, and loose tobacco
- Shops must earn 90% of revenue from tobacco and prohibit food/drinks
What This Means
Retailers that do not meet the city’s specialty requirements can no longer sell flavored tobacco products and may face steep penalties.
Can convenience stores still sell flavored vapes or cigars?
No. These products are now restricted to specialty tobacco retailers that comply with city regulations.
What qualifies as a specialty tobacco shop?
Shops must make 90% of revenue from tobacco, prohibit food or drink service, and restrict entry to adults aged 21+.
