In a proactive effort to safeguard the health of young residents, District 9 Councilmember John Courage has submitted a Council Consideration Request (CCR) aimed at establishing a 1,000-foot vape-free buffer zone around schools, daycares, and institutions of higher education in San Antonio. This initiative seeks to restrict the retail presence of tobacco products, e-cigarettes, vapes, hookah, and headshops within the designated area. The proposal is backed by a study from the National Center for Biotechnology Information, which highlights a concerning link between the proximity of vape shops to schools and increased tobacco use among adolescents. Supported by fellow council members Jalen McKee-Rodriguez, Dr. Adriana Rocha Garcia, Teri Castillo, and Marina Alderete Gavito, the CCR aims to lessen minors' access to vaping products and diminish their visibility in community settings.

By creating these buffer zones, the City Council hopes to address the ongoing youth vaping epidemic and foster a healthier future for all residents. The proposal comes at a crucial time when public health advocates are increasingly calling for measures to protect children from the harmful effects of vaping. If approved, this ordinance could set a precedent for similar initiatives in other districts and cities. Overall, this CCR represents a significant step towards prioritizing youth health and well-being in San Antonio.