Oxnard Police Department Conducts Tobacco Retailer Inspections With Support From Proposition 56 Funding

The Oxnard Police Department has continued its commitment to protecting youth and promoting public health through proactive tobacco retailer inspections funded by the California Healthcare, Research and Prevention Tobacco Tax Act of 2016 (Proposition 56).

Proposition 56 provides critical funding to reduce illegal retail sales and marketing of cigarettes, tobacco products, and e-cigarettes to minors. These funds are administered through the California Department of Justice (DOJ) Tobacco Grant Program and support local law enforcement agencies in their efforts to enforce tobacco laws and safeguard communities.

Over the past several weeks, Oxnard Police Department officers conducted a series of tobacco retail compliance checks at local tobacco retailers throughout the city. These inspections are designed to ensure that businesses are adhering to state laws prohibiting the sale of tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, to individuals under the age of 21. Appropriate enforcement actions, including citations and education on compliance requirements, were taken in accordance with state law.

The safety and well-being of our youth is a top priority. Thanks to Proposition 56 funding and the DOJ Tobacco Grant Program, the Oxnard Police Department is able to conduct these important operations and hold retailers accountable while also educating our community about the risks associated with underage tobacco use.

Retailers are reminded to verify identification carefully and comply with all applicable laws regarding tobacco sales. Community members are encouraged to report suspected violations to the Oxnard Police Department.

For more information about the Tobacco Grant Program or tobacco laws in California, please contact the Oxnard Police Department or visit the California Department of Justice website (https://oag.ca.gov/tobaccogrants).