Sonoma officials seek to limit e-cigarette sales

Sonoma officials want to snuff out the sale of e-cigarettes within the city limits, arguing the devices are attracting a growing number of children.

'They are pervasive in high schools. I hear it from parents all the time,' Councilwoman Rachel Hundley said during Monday night's meeting, where she and fellow council members looked at a proposed ordinance aimed at clamping down on tobacco retailers.

The measure aimed at curtailing the sale of cigarettes, cigars and other products to minors would prohibit new businesses from selling tobacco within the town limits, as well as require existing tobacco retailers to obtain a license with the city. It also would restrict the sale of certain products, such as e-cigarettes and cheap individual flavored cigars.

The council heard on Monday from numerous individuals who both approved and opposed tighter regulations. But no final decision was made.

The ordinance likely will come back for discussion late next month.