Tobacco continues to be the leading cause of preventable death in the state of Oregon and Lane County. Tobacco retail licensing is recognized nationally as a best practice in reducing youth access and use of tobacco, and ultimately in reducing tobacco related deaths as people who do not start using tobacco before the age of 19 are significantly less likely to become long-term users. Licensing helps ensure that retailers selling tobacco comply with all relevant laws or risk losing their license to sell these products.
In 2001, the licensing fee was set at $55 for the initial license with an annual renewal fee of $35. These fees have not been updated since they were established, and they have not kept pace with increases in the number of tobacco retailers or the cost of maintaining the program. Revenue from tobacco licensing fees support City enforcement programs that help train employees and ensure tobacco is not being sold to people under the age of 18 in Eugene.
The proposed fee adjustments would go into effect this year.
First-Time License:
Increase from $55 to $100.
Annual Renewal Fee:
Increase from $35 to $75.
Late fee will be $25.
The comment period is open from April 6 - April 21, 2015. Comments may be submitted by email to tim.j.westerman@ci.eugene.or.us or by mail to:
Business Licensing
Planning & Development Department
99 West 10th Ave.
Eugene, OR 97401