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Why Tobacco Retailer Licensing at the Local Level?. Mary Strode, M.S. STAKE Act Coordinator DHS Tobacco Control Section MStrode1@dhs.ca.gov 916-449-5496. The State licensing law leaves a lot to be desired (Cigarette & Tobacco Products Licensing Act of 2003).
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Why Tobacco Retailer Licensing at the Local Level? Mary Strode, M.S. STAKE Act Coordinator DHS Tobacco Control Section MStrode1@dhs.ca.gov 916-449-5496
The State licensing lawleaves a lot to be desired(Cigarette & Tobacco Products Licensing Act of 2003) • Funds not earmarked for sales to minors enforcement- Lack of monitoring of sales to minors violations - Access by locals to list of licensees restrictive
But There’s Good News! - State law allows local jurisdictions to pass their own (and better!) licensing laws.
Local Retailer Licensing Policies Are Expanding! • 55 local policies in effect all over CA- Rural, Urban, Suburban areas covered- About one-third are particularly strong
Benefits of Licensing at the Local Level - Local laws can contain provisions that allow local enforcement officials to enforce all tobacco control laws. - Local laws can provide meaningful penalties for violations of youth access statutes.
Benefits of Licensing at the Local Level - Communities can craft a policy tailored to their jurisdiction that provides funding directly for enforcement. - Local licensing laws can encompass new tobacco control regulations not covered by the State law. - Working on licensing is very empowering for coalitions and other community advocates!
Assessing Community Needs Around Licensing: A TCS Priority - LLAs are required to explore licensing during their CX needs assessment process. • CX Indicator 3.2.1: • The proportion of communities with a tobacco retail licensing policy that earmarks a portion of the license fee for enforcement activities.
Resources for Licensing • Technical Assistance Legal Center (TALC) • 510-444-8252 • http://talc.phi.org • The Center for Tobacco Policy & Organizing • 916-442-4299 • http://californialung.org/thecenter/ • STORE Website • http://tecc.org/store • Individuals with Licensing Experience
CX Needs Assessment Resources • Communities of Excellence 2006 • http://www.tcspartners.org/Main/WebSite/cx2006/index.html