HomeMy WebLinkAbout1993-08-24 - AGENDA REPORTS - TOBACCO CONTROL (2)AGENDA REPORT
Item to be pre4ented by:
Michael P. Murphy
NEW BUSINESS
DATE:
August 24, 1993
SUBJECT:
Tobacco Control
DEPARTMENT:.
Management Services
BACKGROUND
In recent years, there has been a growing concern throughout the nation relative to the health risks
associated with smoking. While It has long been acknowledged that smoking has a direct
detrimental Impact on the health of those using tobacco products, recent evidence suggests that
second hand smoke also presents a significant health risk to non-smokers.
During the 1980's many California cities enacted some form of tobacco control ordinances. As of
1992, well over half of California cities had such ordinances. These ordinances tend to be reflective
of local concerns and community standards. Typically, the ordinances tend to focus on restricting
the use of tobacco products In such places as the work place, restaurants, grocery stores,
government facilities, theaters, schools, day care facilities, or sporting venues. Another focus area
for tobacco control ordinances.has addressed the accessibility of vending machines to minors.
While many California businesses have. addressed tobacco use In the work place by their
employees, retail and restaurants are the high visibility businesses with respect to tobacco control
Issues. As product and service providers, these business segments sometimes view tobacco
control ordinances as detrimental to their ability to remain competitive, particularly in an urban
marketplace.
The California Legislature has considered legislation to remove local authority in this subject area,
In part to create statewide uniformity on enacted measures. Local governments have successfully
fought off these attempts arguing that local standards should dictate whether ordinances reflective
of local perspectives are enacted.
This Issue comes before the City Council for purposes of creating a discussion as to whether Santa
Clarita should enact tobacco control ordinances. Should some elements of tobacco control be
appropriate for this community, parameters should be discussed as to the nature and extent of any
proposed ordinances.
The Santa Clarlta Valley Chamber- of Commerce has engaged in dialogue with its member
restaurants regarding this Issue. Other Individuals and organizations In the City may have already
begun similar discussions or may wish to participate in the discussion of local tobacco control
restrictions.
RECOMMENDATION
Discuss, receive public comments, direct staff to solicit additional public Input and prepare a
recommendation and refer future discussion to the City Council Study Session of September
1993.
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