Federal Judge Allows Fresno Smoke Shop Ordinance To Take Effect

Fresno has enacted a new ordinance limiting the number of smoke shops to 49 citywide, aiming to address crime and illegal activities linked to many such establishments. The ordinance requires shops to meet stricter regulations, including cleanliness standards and video monitoring, with existing shops given an 18-month period to comply or wind down. The California Smoke Shops Association filed a lawsuit seeking to block the ordinance, arguing it unfairly targets licensed businesses and imposes costly requirements, but a federal judge denied a temporary restraining order, allowing enforcement to proceed. The city has conducted raids uncovering illegal cannabis sales, gambling, and firearms at several smoke shops, which officials say justifies the stricter rules. While the legal battle continues with a hearing scheduled for July, city officials are preparing to implement the ordinance swiftly to restore safety and accountability in Fresno neighborhoods. Shop owners who comply with the law express frustration over the blanket regulations impacting their businesses despite not engaging in illegal activities.