Research shows that 81% of youth tobacco users ages 12-17 initiated with a flavored product. In addition, flavored products are strongly associated with e-cigarettes and vaping. Recent data shows that 72% of LVJUSD 11th graders believe it is easy to obtain e-cigarettes and that 30% (nearly 1 in 3) have used them. Nationally, 74% of youth report obtaining e-cigarette/vaping products from a physical retail location. In Livermore, where more than a quarter (25.4%) of tobacco/vape retailers are located within 1,000 feet of a school, there appears to be a strong correlation between Livermore's high youth rates of use and local availability. 

I am concerned that:

• The sale of candy and other flavored tobacco/vaping products, including menthol cigarettes, is addicting our kids to nicotine.
• The sale of any tobacco/vaping products near schools and playgrounds exposes youth to tobacco/vaping marketing.
• The inexpensive price of some tobacco/vaping products, (under $1 for a single cigarillo) makes them affordable to youth.