Workshop Item - Cathy Sorensen, City Clerk
Title
Title
An Ordinance Amending Chapter 42, Health and Sanitation, Article II, Tobacco, Division 1 and 2 - Flavored Tobacco Restrictions
end
Background
Over several workshops staff reviewed the League of Minnesota Cities’ model tobacco ordinance drafted in collaboration with the Public Health Law Center at Mitchell Hamline School of Law to ensure compliance with State Statutes. At the December 5 workshop, Council shared support for the proposed amendments, which included restricting the sale of flavored tobacco products, including menthol, to exclusive tobacco shops only. Since then, some Councilmembers expressed concern about this restriction and staff is requesting clarification prior to bringing forward the ordinance amendment for first reading.
The proposed amendments work toward limiting the exposure and appeal of tobacco and flavored tobacco products to youth. While the FDA had announced their intention to ban menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars early last year, no such ban is currently in place. Staff forwarded the proposed ordinance to all current license holders late last year and received comments from G-Will Liquors, Blaine MotoMart, and the Minnesota Petroleum Marketers Association expressing concerns with the proposed changes to flavored tobacco.
Staff Recommendation
Staff is requesting clarification on the potential restriction of flavored tobacco, including menthol.
Attachment List
Proposed ordinance amendment