She has the backing of Gov. Paul Patton, who kicked a heavy smoking habit last November with the help of a nicotine patch. But six months went by before the state began issuing citations to enforce the new law, and critics began to question the Patton administration's commitment. Plattner has 27 enforcement agents across the state who keep tabs on both tobacco and alcoholic beverage sales. Four are in Jefferson County, two in Fayette. Plattner would like to have 200.
Aides receive one hour of training.
They're told to look their age when they try to buy cigarettes. They are repeatedly told never to lie. Girls can't wear makeup and boys can have no facial hair. None may smoke, and parents must sign a consent form. Adult enforcement officers are always on the scene when aides try to make buys.