Parents in Gonzales voice support for ordnance banning flavored tobacco

GONZALES, Calif. (KION-TV) -- Gonzales' parents are voicing support for a proposed ordinance that would ban the sale of flavored tobacco products in local stores, restaurants and gas stations.

It would also apply to single-use electronic smoking devices.

The city says it does not expect the ban to impact local businesses making legal sales.

The sale of such products was already banned by the state in 2022, and some store owners say they've already stopped selling them. 

Still, parents and other community members feel the restriction is necessary to protect youth. 

“It is important that we support the teenagers that are buying these products. If we prohibit them, we can help curb the sale of these products to children.” Carmen Álvarez, who lives in Gonzales, says she fears these flavored alternatives are targeting youth.  

Erick Lopez shares a similar concern. “I have seen them in some gas stations, in stores, even near schools, and it doesn't seem right to me,” he says. “They are very harmful to health, and especially young people are very affected.”

Other parents fear that their children might be getting hold of flavored tobacco at school. 

Gonzales City Council could adopt the ordinance on Monday.

The city says it would also bring them one step closer to becoming Blue Zone certified.