Local Sales Bans on Flavored Tobacco Products in California

On May 29th, a new study conducted in California, United States found that banning the sale of flavored tobacco products can decrease the number of people who use them.

Researchers from the University of California, Irvine, have found that regions where a comprehensive ban is implemented have seen a 30% reduction in the use of flavored tobacco.

A specific case study comes from California, where Proposition 31 was recently passed to uphold a state law from 2020 that prohibits the sale of certain flavored tobacco products. Experts believe this will further reduce the number of people in California using flavored tobacco.

Flavored tobacco products, especially, appeal to young people who are more likely to try and become regular users. Studies indicate that local bans on these products may be effective.

David Timberlake, an associate professor in population health and disease prevention at the University of Irvine, has shared his opinion on the chaotic policies across various regions in the United States in a press release. He is also the corresponding author of this study.

The downside of different sales restrictions is the confusion caused by policies varying from region to region. For instance, a person may be unable to purchase flavored tobacco in their hometown, but can cross the city borders and buy it in a town where it is permitted for sale.

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Sales restrictions on flavored tobacco products in California have resulted in a decrease in their use among local consumers.