California: Ontario City Council Bans Flavored Tobacco, Nitrous Oxide, and Kratom

In a unanimous vote, Ontario officials move to prohibit the sale of flavored tobacco, nitrous oxide, and Kratom, citing rising overdose concerns and youth protection.

The City of Ontario has passed a sweeping ordinance banning the sale of flavored tobacco, nitrous oxide (NOX), and Kratom. Set to take effect on April 17, the measure aims to curb youth addiction and address a surge in local overdoses linked to unregulated substances.

The Scope of the New Ordinance

Following a 4-0 vote by the City Council, Ontario is set to enforce a strict ban on three specific substances: flavored tobacco products (including vape e-liquids), nitrous oxide (NOX), and the controversial stimulant Kratom. The ordinance, which passed its first reading earlier this month, is scheduled for a final second reading on March 17 and will officially become law on April 17.

Mayor Paul Leon, drawing on his background as a former drug counselor, emphasized the necessity of these measures to “keep them out of the hands of children.” The ban builds upon California’s Senate Bill 793, which prohibited flavored tobacco sales to anyone under 21 in 2020, by extending restrictions to include emerging synthetic threats.

Rising Health Risks: Kratom and Nitrous Oxide

The decision comes amid growing alarm over the abuse of unregulated substances. Ontario Police Captain Josh Ritchey highlighted that Kratom, often marketed as a supplement, acts as a “synthetic opioid similar to heroin and morphine.” He noted that neighboring Los Angeles County has already experienced a surge in overdoses linked to Kratom, also known as “7-OH.”

Additionally, city staff reports revealed that local smoke shops were selling nitrous oxide under a “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy. The new ordinance also restricts the sale and display of “oil burners,” glass pipes commonly used for inhaling vaporized concentrates.

Read more: Paradise, California Steps Up Enforcement of Flavored Tobacco Ban
News reference: Ontario plans to ban flavored tobacco, nitrous oxide and Kratom sales

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Matthew Ma

Marketing at Ecigator

With over a decade of experience in the e-cigarette industry, Matthew Ma is a seasoned expert in both the manufacturing and usage aspects of vaping products. His extensive background has provided him with a deep understanding of the intricacies and evolving dynamics of e-cigarettes.