MILL VALLEY, CA — Mill Valley's four council members present voted unanimously early October to prohibit retail and delivery sales of commercial tobacco products and electronic smoking devices, a public-health measure supporters said would reduce exposure and addiction while giving affected retailers time to prepare.
The ordinance was set to take effect Feb. 1, 2027. It did not prohibit individuals from possessing or using tobacco products, and it exempted FDA-authorized nicotine-cessation products sold for that purpose.
Vice Mayor Caroline Joachim said the measure addressed several concerns.
"This is an ordinance that advances our commitment to protecting young people, reducing nicotine addiction, and then addressing the environmental impacts of the tobacco product waste," she said. "And so, for these reasons, I'm going to continue to support the ordinance."
Public comments included support from medical professionals and residents, as well as opposition from a representative of the California Fuels and Convenience Alliance.
The representative argued that a ban could shift purchases outside the city and harm small retailers, and asked the council to consider a one-year sunset provision.
Councilmember Urban Carmel thanked supporters who had spoken at multiple meetings.
"I just really appreciate the peole continuing to show up here for this," he said.
Mayor Max Perrey said he hoped other communities would follow Mill Valley and Corte Madera.
"This is a huge moment for not just Mill Valley, but also for Corte Madera that's joined us in this action, and hopefully other cities and the county will follow suit as well, so we can prioritize public health and prioritize our kids and also the environment," he said.
The council adopted the ordinance by title and waived the second reading.
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