Escondido, CA
Seven months and more than 225,000 deaths into the pandemic, the link between vaping and the risk of COVID-19 is becoming more clear. According to a study from Stanford University School of Medicine, vaping is linked to a substantially increased risk of COVID-19 among teenagers and young adults. Regulations such as Tobacco Retail Licensing (TRL) program can reduce youth access to tobacco products and lessen the likelihood of further health complications, including COVID-19. To protect young people, the City of Escondido unanimously voted 4-0 to pass a TRL on October 28th.
Reducing easy access to harmful tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, is one of the most important ways to prevent young people from starting a life-long addiction. A TRL requires retailers who sell tobacco products, including electronic smoking devices (i.e., vapes), to obtain a local license and is a proven and cost-efficient way to keep tobacco products out of the hands of young people.
“As a parent, active community member, and a public health professional, I’m committed to creating a healthy environment not only for my family but also for my neighbors in Escondido,” said Herminia Ledesma, a 25-year Escondido resident. “Thank you for your bold and proactive approach to protect the public’s health and the future of generations of Escondido residents.”
The purpose of the ordinance is to establish a licensing procedure for tobacco retailers, regulate lawful businesses operation, and discourage violations of tobacco-related laws. The TRL ordinance will require tobacco retailers to obtain a tobacco retail license through the Escondido Police Department by completing an application. The new program is estimated to begin July 2021.
There are approximately 130 known businesses within the City of Escondido that sell tobacco products. Escondido joins several other cities in San Diego County with TRL policies, including Oceanside, Vista, San Marcos, El Cajon, Lemon Grove, Chula Vista, and Solana Beach. This week the San Diego County Board of Supervisors also adopted a TRL covering unincorporated areas.
