WEST CHESTER, PA — A Pennsylvania lawmaker has introduced legislation that would restrict where new vape shops can open, aiming to keep them at least 1,000 feet away from K-12 schools.
What This Means for You
- New Location Restrictions Proposed: Future vape shops could be barred from opening within 1,000 feet of schools.
- Focus on Youth Access: The bill targets concerns about minors obtaining vaping and THC products.
- Existing Shops Unaffected: The restriction would apply only to newly licensed businesses.
State Rep. Chris Pielli, D-Chester, said he plans to introduce House Bill 2291 to create the distance requirement for new vape shop licenses.
The proposal would not close or relocate existing vape shops but would apply to new businesses seeking approval to operate.
Lawmaker Cites Health and Safety Concerns
Pielli said the number of vape shops has increased significantly in recent years, raising concerns among residents.
“Over the past few years, the number of vape shops has grown exponentially,” Pielli said. “In many communities, it often feels there is a vape shop on every corner.”
He said constituents have raised concerns about the health effects of vaping and the availability of THC products — cannabis-derived substances that can produce psychoactive effects — in retail stores.
Some residents have also expressed concern about underage access to those products.
Grand Jury Report Raised Concerns
Pielli pointed to a 2025 Montgomery County grand jury report that found some THC products were mislabeled and sold to teenagers.
“These findings are troubling,” Pielli said.
The proposed legislation is intended to reduce the likelihood that students can easily access vape shops located near schools.
Next Steps for the Legislation
Pielli said he is seeking support from fellow lawmakers to advance the bill through the Pennsylvania House.
“I urge my colleagues to support this important legislation to help keep tobacco and THC products out of the hands of teenagers by prohibiting newly licensed vape shops from operating near K-12 schools,” he said.
The bill has been introduced but has not yet been scheduled for a committee vote.
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