1. Tobacco Retailer’s Licensing Some lessons from Contra Costa County

2. Context for the Tobacco Retailer’s License Ordinance 1997 – 1998, the Tobacco Industry and CGA both attended Board of Supervisors meetings re: Tobacco- Free Youth Ordinance End of 1998, Board adopted a “penalty” licensing ordinance.

3. Contra Costa Context Cont By 2002, BOS wanted to “upgrade” TRL ordinance to license all retailers. WHY? TPC had kept the issue of youth and tobacco before the BOS during advocacy for MSA funds – a two year period. Champion of licensing was running for Assembly and wanted to add to her legacy.

4. Contra Costa Context Cont Composition of the Board changed – 2 who voted for “penalty” licensing replaced by 2 strong tobacco prevention advocates. TI and CGA did not attend meetings where new TRL discussed. TPP kept the discussions under the radar screen. Revised ordinance adopted in January 2003 and implemented in July in concert with Tax Collector.

5. Licensing and Compliance Before licensing, sales rate 37% in unincorporated area. TCS Enforcement Grant supported stings. With licensing and active enforcement of PC308(a), sales rate fell to 2%, then climbed to 7% at end of FY 2003 – 2004.

6. Licensing and Compliance Between October 2003 and 2004, 10 license suspension hearings & 8 suspensions. 7 suspensions for illegal sales, 1 for ssd

7. License Fees - Now There are about 110 tobacco retailers. $160 annual licensing fee. 175 site inspections for ssd ban, TRL. 100 stings for PC308(a) – contract with Sheriff.

8. Enforcement and Prosecution In CCC, moved prosecution of 308(a) citations from DA to traffic court. Lots of people power involved to enforce, prosecute and maintain paperwork (reports, database, correspondence, files).

9. Hearing Process Close relationship with County Counsel for protocol, forms, the odd situation. One hearing officer who has set a standard of one week for PC308(a) violations, second chance for TFYO violations. Costs of hearing ($348)and re-inspection ($110) charged to the retailer.

10. What’s Next? How many suspensions will it take for retailers to stop selling tobacco to minors? Adding signage provision to the model licensing ordinance that we are promoting in two cities in our county. Complying with local signage ordinances will be a conditions of maintaining a TRL.

11. Questions? Call Charlotte Dickson at 925-313-6216 Or email at cdickson@hsd.co.contra-costa.ca.us