Teen’s death sparks proposed vape store regulations in Shreveport

SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – The death of a Shreveport teenager leads to proposed regulations on vape stores which city leaders are saying lack any oversight.

City council is proposing an ordinance that would put vape stores in line with the city’s Chapter 11 code that regulates alcohol sales.

The ordinance would require vape product manufacturers, distributors, and sellers to obtain a permit from the Shreveport Police Department.

The police department has responded to numerous issues at vape stores that operate with no identified owner or operator to ensure responsibility for legal operations.

It has led to many citations and arrests. Including the tragic shooting death of an underage girl inside a vape store on North Market Street in July.

The district’s councilwoman, Tabatha Taylor is sponsoring the ordinance.

She said these businesses need to be held accountable and children need to be protected.

“What we found was there were no rules or regulations as it related to vape stores. So we’re hoping to set a precedent of what needs to take place. Any child who is under the age of 21 should not ever be in a vape store because they don’t need to be buying tobacco products,” Taylor said.

Vape shops and retailers are currently only regulated by the Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control. Louisiana law increased the legal age to buy tobacco products from 18 to 21 in 2021.

This ordinance will be voted on by the council at their next meeting on September 9.