According to a report by Nexstar on January 5th, the Scott County Sheriff's Department in Iowa has announced its participation in the "I-PLEDGE" program, partnering with the Iowa Department of Revenue to prevent tobacco, alternative nicotine, and e-cigarette products from reaching minors.
Since its inception in 2000, the program has effectively increased the statewide tobacco compliance rate to 91%.
The I-PLEDGE program aims to collaborate with retailers, educating them on and enforcing relevant laws. The Scott County Sheriff's Office has pledged to further enhance compliance rates this year by participating in the program and conducting compliance checks in local establishments. The program places a strong emphasis on retailer training, whereby employees who successfully complete online training courses and pass exams earn the "I-PLEDGE" certification. This certification enables retail establishments to employ a valid defense when sales by certified staff are deemed illegal, protecting them against potential civil penalties.
The Sheriff of Scott County stated that the "I-PLEDGE" retail training provides a solid avenue for store employees to refuse illegal tobacco and e-cigarette product sales, assisting retailers in maintaining a compliant and responsible business environment.
As part of the "I-PLEDGE" program, the Scott County Police Department will be conducting compliance checks on local establishments. Under the supervision of law enforcement officers, underage customers will attempt to purchase tobacco and e-cigarette products, and any staff members found to be selling illegally will be fined on the spot.
Criminal penalties have been imposed for the act of selling tobacco and e-cigarette products to minors, including a first offense fine of $135, a second offense fine of $325, and a fine of $645 for third offenses and subsequent violations.
The police chief emphasized that the "I-PLEDGE" program aims to assist in preventing tobacco and e-cigarette products from falling into the hands of minors through educating retailers and maintaining compliant retail environments.
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