In a bid to enhance child safety measures, Bristol, Va. city officials are proposing a new ordinance aimed at regulating the locations of ‘recreational substance shops’ within the city.
Under this proposed rule, businesses that sell products such as tobacco, hemp, and kratom would be prohibited from opening within 1,000 feet of public spaces like schools, daycares, and parks.
“The intention here is fundamentally about ensuring that stores selling products, which are only purchaseable by those aged 21 and over, are not situated near areas frequented by young people, like schools and playgrounds,” explained Jay Detrick, the City of Bristol, VA Community Development Director, during a conversation with News Channel 11.
While Virginia is moving towards launching a recreational marijuana market, it’s important to note that this ordinance does not pertain to marijuana outlets.
“This specific ordinance is limited to products such as tobacco, hemp, and kratom, and does not address marijuana,” Detrick clarified. “Once the recreational marijuana market is introduced, expected in July 2027, a distinct ordinance will be established for it.”
The planning commission will make final recommendations on the ordinance during its July meeting. The city council will have two more readings to pass the ordinance after that.