County tackles tobacco waste crisis with new ordinance proposal
October 17, 2024 | Santa Cruz County, California
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Leonard noted that recent cleanups revealed a significant issue with tobacco waste, particularly around no smoking signs, indicating a need for more effective regulations. The meeting also addressed concerns from local retailers and community members about their involvement in the ordinance proposal process, with some expressing that they were not adequately informed.
The ordinance, which is being advanced by an ad hoc committee rather than the public health department, aims to tackle the environmental and public health crises associated with tobacco waste. Invitations to a retailer meeting were sent out a month in advance, but questions remain about the level of engagement from local businesses and the potential impact of the ordinance on waste reduction.
Supervisors discussed the importance of a coordinated approach across local jurisdictions to ensure the effectiveness of the ordinance. They emphasized that a piecemeal approach could lead to ineffective policies, as consumers might simply cross into neighboring areas to purchase tobacco products. The conversation underscored the need for collaboration among cities to create a unified stance against tobacco waste.
As the county moves forward with the proposal, there is a clear recognition of the need for ongoing dialogue with local jurisdictions to ensure that any regulations are comprehensive and effective in addressing the tobacco waste issue. The supervisors expressed optimism about the potential for local councils to adopt similar measures in the near future, reinforcing the importance of a collective effort in tackling this public health challenge.
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