Information provided by Hollister Police Department.  Lea este artÃculo en español aquÃ.
On May 29, 2026, officers from the Hollister Police Department, in partnership with Hollister Code Enforcement, conducted a Tobacco Retail Inspection at the Green Rush Smoke Shop, located on the 700 block of San Benito Street. This was part of an ongoing effort to protect young people from the harmful effects of tobacco and nicotine addiction and to ensure compliance with California law.
This operation was funded through a grant from the California Department of Justice aimed at reducing youth access to flavored tobacco products and increasing retailer compliance with state regulations. Research has consistently shown that flavored tobacco products are particularly appealing to youth and can contribute to early nicotine addiction, making enforcement efforts critical to protecting the health and well-being of our community’s young people.
During the inspection, officers verified whether the business possessed or sold flavored tobacco products or other tobacco items prohibited under Senate Bill 793 (SB 793) and California Health and Safety Code Section 104559.5. California law prohibits the retail sale of most flavored tobacco products, including flavored disposable vaping devices, flavored electronic cigarettes, menthol tobacco products, and flavored smokeless tobacco products.
As a result of the inspection, officers located and seized 2,141 illegally flavored tobacco products that were displayed on shelves, stored in drawers, and kept in boxes within the business. The business owner was advised of the applicable state laws and notified of the observed violations. The case will be forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office for review and consideration of appropriate charges.
The Hollister Police Department remains committed to working collaboratively with local businesses to promote compliance with state tobacco laws. Through education, enforcement, and community partnerships, the Department will continue its efforts to reduce youth access to tobacco products, prevent nicotine addiction among young people, and safeguard the health and safety of the Hollister community.