News

On Wednesday, January 8 and Thursday, January 9, Visalia Police Department Officers conducted tobacco compliance inspections at several businesses in the City of Visalia, thanks to a grant from the California Department of Justice.

"The purpose of the inspections was to ensure businesses were complying with California State Laws regarding the sale of tobacco and tobacco products, as well as educate businesses on the recent changes to the California flavored tobacco ban," shared Liz Jones, Public Safety Police and Fire Public Information Officer.

Nine businesses were given warnings for having banned flavored tobacco products for sale and four businesses were given warnings for failure to display a valid California Cigarette & Tobacco Products License.

"The Visalia Police Department will be holding a series of tobacco decoy and compliance inspections throughout the year to ensure businesses are

complying with state law," added Jones.

A retailer who is found guilty of selling tobacco products to a minor can be charged for a misdemeanor or subject to a fine up to $1,000.

Possession of flavored tobacco products for sale can result in civil penalties ranging from $1,000 to $20,000 per violation.