Iowa City to impose moratorium on new tobacco permits

Hunter
05/09/24

Iowa City’s City Council has voted to impose a moratorium on new tobacco permits while they assess the recent surge in tobacco and vape shops in the city.

The Press-Citizen reports the moratorium will begin around June 4 and run through January 1st.

The pause will allow the council to study and determine “the best ways to mitigate the harmful impacts of tobacco, tobacco products, alternative nicotine products, and vapor products on public health.”

City Attorney Eric Goers is scheduled to present an initial assessment when the Council meets in July.

The resolution passed in this week’s meeting mentions the possibility of limiting the number of tobacco permits or restricting permits in areas near schools and vulnerable populations.

Existing tobacco permits expiring June 30th will be allowed to renew.