Downey considering tighter tobacco regulations

DOWNEY - Downey is looking to make it harder for tobacco to end up in the hands of underage users.

At their meeting on Tuesday, City Council was presented with several options to regulate the sale of tobacco products, which included implementation of permits, buffer zones, and – potentially – an outright ban on flavored tobacco products in the city.

These discussions have been spearheaded by Mayor Pro Tem Blanca Pacheco and Councilman Sean Ashton, out of concern that tobacco companies are targeting a younger demographic.

“We were concerned that flavored tobacco is being targeted towards our youth,” said Pacheco.

Smoking has been linked to several serious health issues, including heart disease, lung cancer, lung disease, thyroid damage, eye, nose, throat, and sinus irritation, and lower respiratory tract illnesses.

While the smoking of cigarettes has gone down, use of items such as vaping pens and e-cigarettes has increased, especially in high school settings.

Upon initial review of the presentation, Council seemed immediately receptive to the implementation of a tobacco retailer’s permit.

This would require potential retailers to obtain a permit from the city before they could sell tobacco products, and ultimately would allow the city to more easily take action – such as suspend or revoke selling privileges – should the establishment violate the conditions of the permit or the law.

The Council also seemed eager at the thought of establishing buffer zones, which would keep the sale of tobacco away from certain areas, specifically schools, day cares, or other tobacco retailers. Previously existing retailers would be grandfathered in, considered legal, non-conforming.

A ban on smoking / hookah lounges was also entertained, however would need to pass through the Planning Commission, as would the buffer zones, should the city pursue that option.

Ultimately, staff is expected to return with more information and a potential resolution for council to consider at a future council meeting.