The Corte Madera Town Council has voted to advance an ordinance that would ban the sale of all tobacco and nicotine products within the Marin County community. The measure, which passed with a 3-2 vote, would prohibit businesses from selling, commercially distributing, or delivering these products.
The proposed ban encompasses traditional items like cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco, as well as newer products such as e-cigarettes, vapes, heated tobacco devices, and nicotine pouches like Zyn. The affluent city, with an average household income of $232,763 according to the U.S. Census Bureau, has a population of approximately 10,000 residents.
Retailers will have a limited period to sell off existing inventory. Under the ordinance, sales would be permitted through January 31, 2027, with the prohibition taking effect on February 1, 2027. The ban does not extend to residents' personal possession or use of these products.
The council's decision followed an emotional public comment session where students from Redwood High School's Tobacco Use Prevention Education group spoke. Senior Mari Silva urged officials to consider families who have lost loved ones to tobacco-related illnesses. "Think about the people not here," Silva stated. "Protect one more family from this kind of loss."
John Watson, a junior at the same school, shared that he lost his grandfather to smoking and witnesses students using tobacco or nicotine products in school bathrooms. "I ask that you help those kids … you will be helping them and an entire generation," Watson told the council.
The proposal has also faced opposition. Resident David Macpherson described the measure as a "slippery slope," while Peter Massick declared, "I’m also against prohibition."
Councilmember Eli Beckman, who voted in favor of moving the ordinance forward, argued for taking students' concerns seriously. Beckman supported an option that would also ban products marketed for "other therapeutic purposes." He cited a recent visit to Redwood High School where he observed nicotine pouches discarded in bathroom urinals, highlighting their prevalence among students.
Beckman was joined by council members Pat Ravasio and Fred Casissa in supporting the ordinance. The council waived additional readings, indicating the measure is expected to return for formal adoption.
The ordinance includes an exception for FDA-authorized tobacco-cessation or therapeutic products when marketed and sold exclusively for their approved purpose. If adopted, Corte Madera would become a restricted zone for retailers selling tobacco and nicotine products, while individual use by residents would remain permissible.