San Diego Union Tribune – Letter to the Editor
Septmeber 22, 2011

Kudos to the city of El Cajon for making public health and safety a priority in regards to sales of tobacco products to minors (“Smoking opponents praise El Cajon law,” SignOnSanDiego.com, Aug. 22). Two cities in North County, Vista and Solana Beach, have strong tobacco retailer license ordinances as well. To date this year, the Sheriff’s Department in Vista has conducted multiple compliance checks and the most recent operation found that none of the stores sold tobacco products to minors. With the success of ordinances like these, cities can ensure that future generations have the best opportunity to remain healthy and tobacco-free. It’s time for the rest of the cities in the county to support this serious public health concern and adopt policies that protect our youth from this deadly addiction.

Gena Knutson
Program Manager
Vista Community Clinic