Pico Rivera council adopts smoke-free rules for multiunit housing, votes 4–0

The Pico Rivera City Council voted 4–0 on May 15 to adopt an ordinance creating a smoke-free multi-unit housing chapter in the municipal code, aiming to reduce residents’ exposure to secondhand smoke.

Supporters and opponents both addressed the council during a public hearing. Joseph Ramos told the council he supported the health goals but urged a longer compliance window for tenants currently living in smoking-permitted units, saying a six-month notice would “put these renters in jeopardy” and asking the city to provide “at least 1 year for existing tenants” to comply or relocate. Antonio, a community advocate wearing white with other supporters, urged the council to act now to protect children, seniors and residents with chronic conditions: “Our residents have the right to breathe clean air,” he said.

Councilmember Lehi initially proposed an amendment to extend penalties beyond the third violation but withdrew it after staff clarified penalties are assessed per violation with no time limit. City staff told the council they plan a notification grace period through the end of the calendar year to ensure multifamily property owners are informed; staff also said the local enforcement timeline dovetails with a calendar-year implementation window in 2027.

After discussion, the council approved the ordinance as recommended. The roll call recorded votes in favor by Councilmember Garcia, Councilmember Lutz, Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Monica Sanchez and Mayor Camacho; Councilmember Angelata was absent by prior notice.

The council and speakers presented the ordinance as an educational and public-health measure rather than primarily punitive; staff said early enforcement will emphasize education and outreach for tenants and landlords. The council did not adopt the longer compliance period requested by some public speakers.

The council adjourned the hearing after the vote and moved on to the consent calendar.