Legislation that could end head shops in Florida goes to Governor Crist’s desk

Talk about an unpopular issue, at least with state legislators.

Although a coalition of head shop owners has been warning customers and friends to rally to oppose legislation that would make it illegal to sell bongs and other pipes for use at head shops, the Florida House Wednesday morning voted 115-0 to do so.

Specifically, the bill sponsored by St. Petersburg Democrat Darryl Rouson would ban the retail sale of the specialty pipes except at stores that sell mostly tobacco products. The Senate already passed the bill, so it will go to Governor Crist's desk soon to sign.  Ro

The bill exempts businesses getting at least 75 percent of gross sales from tobacco products and no more than 25 percent from the prohibited items.

This article appears in Apr 28 – May 4, 2010.