Board Concludes Tobacco Regulations Need No Changes
The Board of Health concluded that Amherst's tobacco regulations do not require changes based on research into secondhand vaping effects in residential buildings and confirmation that state law already covers smoking prohibitions on school property.
Board of Health · Meeting of September 2, 2026
AMHERST — The Board of Health concluded that Amherst's tobacco regulations do not require changes based on research into secondhand vaping effects in residential buildings and confirmation that state law already covers smoking prohibitions on school property. The board supported a Massachusetts emergency order placing kratom in Schedule I effective August 28, making it illegal for sale; Health Director Kiko Malin is visiting local businesses to ensure awareness and plans to speak with UMass health professionals about potential student dependence issues. Puffer's Pond failed its final seasonal water quality test, though test results have improved from prior years; permanent signage will be installed in spring.
The town will host a fall vaccine clinic October 22.
In the full story:
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Source: the Board of Health meeting of September 2, 2026, compiled from the official minutes.
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