California Health Collaborative (Merced County Tobacco Control Project)

The Merced County Tobacco Control Program (MCTCP) serves in the capacity of Local

Lead Agency for tobacco prevention and control efforts in Merced County. With funding

support from the California Department of Public Health – Tobacco Control Program,

MCTCP is administered by the California Health Collaborative to implement a

comprehensive tobacco control plan that includes the following objectives: 1) advance

efforts by incorporated cities in Merced County to adopt a policy that eliminates the sale

and distribution of flavored tobacco products and electronic smoking devices (ESD); 2)

facilitate the process for incorporated cities in Merced County to adopt a policy that

eliminates the use of all tobacco products, including ESDs, in outdoor venues such as

parks, farmers markets, fairgrounds, and other recreational and public venues; and 3)

establishes a Youth Advisory Board that facilitates the engagement of youth in the

program's tobacco control efforts. Program plan strategies were developed based on

results of a community needs assessment and prioritization process and adhere to priority

areas and guidelines set forth by the California Tobacco Control Program.