Golden State Today

California Attorney General Rob Bonta has announced the allocation of more than $28.5 million in grants to 76 local government agencies as part of the California Department of Justice's Proposition 56 Tobacco Grant Program for the fiscal year 2024-2025. These grants aim to curb illegal tobacco sales to underage youth by supporting various enforcement and educational activities.

The grant recipients include law enforcement, prosecuting agencies, public health departments, cities, and counties across California. The funding will support activities such as "flavor ban" enforcement, retailer education programs, inspections, training on tobacco laws, and monitoring compliance.

Attorney General Bonta also revealed the outcomes of Operation Up in Smoke, a statewide initiative targeting illegal flavored tobacco products at retail locations. The operation involved multiple state and local agencies and resulted in the seizure of over $1 million worth of illegal products. "The alarming rise in youth exposure to nicotine...demands urgent and decisive action," said Bonta.

Local officials have expressed their support for the program. Fresno City Attorney Andrew Janz highlighted that many schools in Fresno are near smoke shops selling products appealing to minors. Long Beach City Prosecutor Doug Haubert emphasized increased enforcement against retailers with a history of violations.

In Vallejo, Assistant City Manager Gillian Haen welcomed a $932,000 grant for tackling issues related to youth tobacco use. Modesto Police Department acknowledged the importance of this funding in addressing rising youth tobacco use rates. Chula Vista Police Department plans to use its grant for operations targeting those selling banned products to minors.

The City of Rancho Cordova intends to engage all local tobacco retailers through educational efforts aimed at reducing flavored product use among youths.

Proposition 56 funds these initiatives by imposing taxes on cigarettes and other tobacco products. Since its inception in 2016, approximately $212 million has been awarded through competitive processes.

Operation Up in Smoke seized various illegal items beyond flavored tobacco products including unstamped cigarettes and counterfeit stamps. Agencies participating included several police departments and health services from across California.

For more details about the Tobacco Grant Program recipients or Operation Up in Smoke results, interested parties can access additional information online.