Tobacco Compliance July 6, 2009

The Asotin County Health District recently conducted tobacco compliance checks at all area retailers currently selling tobacco products.  Compliance checks are supervised and controlled tobacco purchase attempt by underage youth.  These checks are part of a program aimed at reducing youth access to tobacco products.  It has been demonstrated that almost 90% of adult smokers began at or before age 18.  Not only is tobacco itself a dangerous substance, it is often the “gateway drug” to other forms of drug abuse.  Federal law requires states to enforce youth access laws and conduct inspections to ensure compliance with the law.  Youth operatives are required to go through a proper training process prior to conducting compliance checks.

 

During this most recent round of compliance checks, two retailers made tobacco sales to minors.  In both cases, the clerk checked the youth’s valid identification prior to making the sale.  All sales are reported to the Washington State Liquor Control Board.  The LCB levies all fines and license suspensions.  Fines range from $50.00 to $1500.00 depending upon the number of offenses on record.  Both clerks and businesses are fined.

 

Asotin County retailers are provided with education annually.  Compliance checks are conducted randomly throughout the year.  Anyone with questions may contact the Asotin County Health District (758-3344) for additional information.