Tobacco Grant Program FY 2026/27
Description
DOJ’s Tobacco Grant Program application process is highly competitive. Under DOJ’s Proposition 56 funds, awards for Local Assistance will go to public agencies who can support and/or hire law enforcement to combat illegal tobacco and e-cigarette sales and marketing to minors. We highly encourage all applicants to register for the pre-application webinar to be held on May 5, 2026, 10:00-11:00 AM (Pacific) via Zoom. This webinar will provide prospective applicants with information regarding the program’s focus and priorities, funding available, application process, and will include time for questions. The recorded presentation will be uploaded to the Tobacco Grant Program webpage. A. PRIORITY ACTIVITIES CONSIDERED Priority activities include, but are not limited to: • Enforcing state tobacco laws and local ordinances, including the statewide flavor ban (and similar local ordinances) through retailer inspections and enforcement operations (e.g. minor decoy, shoulder tap, undercover buys in stores and online) • Consumer protection enforcement (investigations and prosecutions) • Compliance checks and inspections of tobacco retailers and online vendors that deliver tobacco products • Task force coordination among local agencies• Retailer education and diversion for retailers violating state tobacco laws • Education for enforcement officers regarding enforcement of state tobacco laws and local ordinances B. ACTIVITIES NOT CONSIDERED IN THIS FUNDING OPPORTUNITY Activities that will NOT be considered within this funding opportunity include, but are not limited to: • School and community-based enforcement of tobacco possession and use, including School Resource Officers (SROs) and the purchase or use of vape detectors • School and community-based education (including media campaigns) • Other activities that are insufficiently related to reducing the illegal retail sales and/or marketing of tobacco products to minors and youth
Eligibility
Public Agency Eligible entities with enforcement authority may include but are not limited to: • Police departments • Sheriff’s departments • Code enforcement departments • Environmental or public health departments • City and district attorneys • County counsel • Cities and counties with enforcement authority