Скачать или смотреть Henrico officials tighten regulations on recreational substances sold in the county

Henrico county residents have voiced concerns about the rapid growth of smoke shops that have opened in the area, as well as the increase of recreational substances sold in convenience stores and gas stations. County officials share these concerns and launched a multidepartment task force mid-2025 to assess the reach of these products.

The county spent several months studying the local smoke shop market. More than 80 stores have been inspected, and several have been charged with distributing illegal substances or illegally selling recreational substances to children. Code inspectors also have found that many of these businesses do not meet building safety codes, with unsafe wiring and blocked exits.

Additionally, the recreational substances sold are very difficult to regulate. The task force has worked closely with the Department of Forensic Science at Virginia Commonwealth University. Lab tests of products from retail shops in Henrico and other localities revealed substances that are not listed on the label.

“These are sold as legal products, and the consumer believes they are regulated and they’re not,” said VCU professor Dr. Peace.

On Dec. 16, 2025, the Board of Supervisors approved an amendment to the existing zoning ordinance to regulate not only vape shops, but stores that sell other recreational substances, such as tobacco, kratom, and cannabis products.

(Product photos courtesy of Dr. Michelle Peace)