NORTHAMPTON, MA (WGGB/WSHM) -- The Northampton Board of Health voted Thursday to approve a “nicotine-free generation” policy, meaning anyone born on or after July 1, 2005 will never be able to buy nicotine in the city.

City leaders said the policy is in the interest of public health and will help prevent addiction before it starts. Business owners argued it is at the expense of their livelihoods.

“Anything further that we can do to eradicate this addiction we need to do it as public health professionals,” said Cynthia Suopis of the Northampton Board of Health.

The policy is designed to gradually phase out nicotine sales for future generations. Under the new policy, anyone born on or after July 1, 2005 will be barred from buying nicotine products anywhere within city limits.

“We’ve heard from many other municipalities that have adopted it, we’ve heard from a lot of people who feel against it for various reasons, but I think this proposal is a great strategy,” said Janet Grant of the Northampton Board of Health.

Since its proposal, Northampton neighbors and business owners have been divided. Some store owners argued the policy is discriminatory, will not stop underage use, and could hurt their business.

Board members said they are acknowledging those concerns while still pushing for a positive and lasting impact for public health. “There are options for other kinds of business models that are not all cigarette-based for convenience stores,” said Joanne Levin of the Northampton Board of Health.

Board members noted the long-term health benefits outweigh the impact, even with concerns from some local retailers. “We’ve read and understand from many other board members in other municipalities and it just makes sense,” Grant explained.

The policy now moves into the implementation phase, including how retailers will be notified and how enforcement will work.

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