State awards $2 million grant to Fresno Co. efforts to reduce illegal tobacco sales

Fresno County has received nearly $2 million in grant funding to reduce the sale of illegal tobacco products. 

The Fresno County Department of Public Health and the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office announced that they received $1.998 million from the California Department of Justice, Tobacco Grant Program. 

The big picture: Funding will support the county’s fight against illegal tobacco products and the marketing of tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, to people under the age of 21. 

The county will enhance its flavored tobacco ban enforcement, minor decoy operations, retailer education programs, task force coordination and training for officers on tobacco laws and ordinances with the funding. 

Why it matters: While California bans flavored tobacco products, the ban has not taken such products out of the marketplace. 

Research shows that among California students who use e-cigarettes, 89.5% used flavored products in 2024. 

Fresno County also pointed to the fact that over half of students in Fresno County live within close proximity to tobacco retailers, adding that research shows that exposure to tobacco marketing increases the likelihood of minors trying tobacco products by 60%. 

Driving the news: The grant is funded by Proposition 56, which voters approved in 2016. 

Prop. 56 increased the cigarette tax by $2 per pack. 

What we’re watching: The funding will last through June 30, 2029. 

What they’re saying: “The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office is committed to protecting our youth and supporting a healthier community,” said Sheriff John Zanoni. “This grant provides valuable resources that will help us work alongside the Fresno County Department of Public Health to ensure compliance with state tobacco laws, reduce underage access to tobacco and e-cigarette products, and educate retailers about their responsibilities under the law. Through enforcement, education, and collaboration, we can help prevent youth nicotine addiction and promote safer, healthier outcomes for Fresno County residents. We appreciate the California Department of Justice for its partnership and investment in these important efforts.” 

Department of Public Health Director Joe Prado said receiving the grant reinforces the county’s commitment to protecting the health and safety of the community. 

“The Fresno County Department of Public Health is proud to partner with the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office and the California Department of Justice to support local retailers in complying with the law and preventing underage youth from accessing tobacco products.”