Marin supervisors approve price hike for cigarettes, ban on selling vapes in county - Local News Matters

Marin County supervisors approved an ordinance on Tuesday to increase cigarette prices and ban vaping device sales, reflecting a commitment to public health. If given final approval on November 18, the law will set a minimum price of $12 for tobacco products and prohibit discounts. This initiative allows local cities to enact their own regulations by July 1, with enforcement slated to begin by September 2026. Public health officials highlighted the effectiveness of similar laws, noting a 15% reduction in cigarette sales in Oakland after its minimum price law was implemented. Marin County's adolescent e-cigarette usage is concerning, with 55% of 11th graders admitting to vaping.

The ordinance aims to address health disparities in communities affected by targeted marketing. In California, smoking-related deaths number around 40,000 annually, with Marin County accounting for about 230 deaths. Public health advocates stress the importance of protecting youth from nicotine addiction and its effects on brain development.