Cuyahoga County
Monday, November 16, 2015
Cleveland City Council to debate flavored tobacco
Councilman Joe Cimperman wants it sold only at tobacco shops, not at gas stations or in convenience stores
by WKSU's KABIR BHATIA |
Reporter
Kabir Bhatia | | |
 | | Councilman Joe Cimperman says flavored tobacco is likely aimed at young people, and should not be sold in gas stations or convenience stores | | Courtesy of City of Cleveland |
Cleveland City Council's Health Committee is holding hearings today on the sale of flavored tobacco products. WKSU's Kabir Bhatia reports. |
LISTEN: Cleveland City Council to debate flavored tobaccoOther options:  MP3 Download (0:45)
|
Councilman Joe Cimperman says mint- and fruit-flavored cigars and chew are gateway drugs aimed at young people, and tells WKYC that he wants them sold only at tobacco shops, and not in gas stations and convenience stores. He also wants to raise the legal age for buying cigarettes in the city from 18 to 21, saying tobacco should be treated like alcohol due to the health risks.
Cimperman has also suggested that the city stop hiring smokers, and help smokers currently employed by the city to quit, saying the goal is to have healthier workers and save money on insurance costs. Today’s meeting starts at 9:30, and testimony is expected both from healthcare officials as well as store owners who want to continue selling the flavored tobacco products. |
|
