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On On Wednesday, February 5, 2025, officers from the Visalia Police Department conducted tobacco compliance checks at several businesses across the city.

"The goal was to ensure businesses were following California state laws regarding the sale of tobacco products and to educate them about recent updates to the state's flavored tobacco ban," shared Liz Jones, Public Safety Police and Fire Public Information Officer. "One business received a

warning for selling banned flavored tobacco products."

Throughout the year, the Visalia Police Department will conduct tobacco decoy and compliance inspections to ensure businesses adhere to state regulations.

"Retailers caught selling tobacco products to minors may face misdemeanor charges or fines up to $1,000. Selling flavored tobacco products can result in civil penalties ranging from $1,000 to $20,000 per violation," added Jones.

The program and local enforcement by the Visalia Police Department is made possible by a grant from the California Department of Justice.