Proposed Fresno tobacco licensing ordinance heads to City Council

FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) — A new ordinance could soon give the city of Fresno more power to crack down on illegal tobacco sales.

City leaders say too many stores are continuing to sell illegally flavored tobacco products and other items that violate state law.

City leaders are pushing for a tobacco retailer licensing program that would allow the city to fine repeat offenders, seize illegal products, and even revoke a store’s license.

The proposal was introduced on Tuesday by Council President Nelson Esparza alongside councilmembers Tyler Maxwell and Mike Karbassi.

The ordinance would also increase penalties for stores caught selling to minors or selling illegal flavored tobacco products.

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Advocates say illegal tobacco sales have been a growing concern for years, especially when it comes to youth vaping.

The proposed ordinance is scheduled to be formally introduced at Thursday’s Fresno City Council meeting.