On Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at 1:30 PM, the Kansas City Neighborhood Planning and Development Committee in Missouri will convene to discuss an ordinance that could have a significant impact on residents who use safer nicotine alternatives. The proposed ordinance seeks to ban the sale of all flavored nicotine and tobacco products, including vaping devices, nicotine pouches, and other smoke-free options that many rely on to reduce or quit cigarette smoking. 

Meeting Details: 

• Committee: Neighborhood Planning and Development 
• Date: Tuesday, October 8, 2024 
• Time: 1:30 PM 
• Location: 26th Floor, Council Chamber: 414 E. 12th Street Kansas City, MO 64106 
• Remote Access: Available via ZOOM 

This meeting is a critical step in advancing the flavor ban ordinance, and it is expected that the committee will move forward with discussions. If passed, this ordinance would make it illegal to sell flavored nicotine products in Kansas City, MO—a move that could have far-reaching consequences for those trying to quit traditional cigarettes. 

While proponents of the ban argue it is aimed at reducing youth access to nicotine products, opponents believe it unfairly punishes adults who rely on flavors to successfully quit smoking. Flavored alternatives have helped millions transition away from combustible cigarettes, which are proven to be far more harmful. The National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) reported that restrictions on flavored vaping products reduce frequent youth use by 1.2 to 2.5 percentage points but also lead to a substitution effect, with young adults turning to combustible cigarettes. 

Why Your Presence Matters 

Even if you don’t plan to speak at the meeting, your attendance—whether in person or virtually—sends a powerful message. A large turnout will demonstrate how many people could be negatively impacted by this legislation. For many, the availability of flavored nicotine products is a key factor in their ability to stay smoke-free. By showing up, you can help protect these options for yourself and others who are working to lead healthier lives. 

Take Action Before the Meeting 

Before the meeting, consider reaching out to your city council member and voicing your concerns. Fill out the CASAA call to action. Share your personal story about how switching to smoke-free products has improved your life and why the availability of flavored options is important to you. You can highlight how this ban could potentially push former smokers back to traditional cigarettes, undermining harm reduction efforts in the city. 

This is a pivotal moment for the community, and your voice matters. Make plans to attend the meeting, either in person or via ZOOM, and stand up for the right to safer alternatives.