What’s next for the flavored tobacco ban in Denver?

What’s next for the flavored tobacco ban in Denver?

Voters will decide in November of this year whether to uphold or repeal the flavored tobacco sales ban. Until then, soft enforcement will continue with full penalties starting January 1, 2026. Both sides are preparing major campaigns, and the outcome could influence how other Colorado cities handle tobacco regulations moving forward.

Denver's flavored tobacco ban: What voters need to know before November

This fall, Denver voters will decide the fate of the city’s ban on flavored tobacco and nicotine products, as a campaign led by Children’s Hospital Colorado and health advocates launches to defend the ordinance against a repeal initiative.

The “Denver Kids vs. Big Tobacco” campaign aims to persuade voters to uphold last year's ban on the sale of flavored products, including vapes and menthol cigarettes. Although the law officially took effect in March, full enforcement isn’t expected until 2026. However, local vape store owners placed a measure on the November ballot asking voters to decide whether to keep or repeal the ban.

Supporters of the ban, including council members and organizations such as the American Heart Association and the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, argue that it is crucial for protecting youth. They claim that candy-like flavors attract underage users and point to the high healthcare costs associated with tobacco use ($2.2 billion annually in Colorado alone). They also point to survey data suggesting that many teens are not refused sales based on age.

Opponents, represented by groups like the Rocky Mountain Smoke-Free Alliance and local shop owners like Phil Guerin of Myxed Up, argue the ban unfairly targets legitimate small businesses, will cost the city millions in tax revenue, and won’t stop youth access, potentially pushing sales underground. They distinguish themselves from “Big Tobacco.” This follows a previous attempt to ban flavored products in 2021, which was vetoed by the then-mayor.

• News source: Denver Gazette report