Licenses all retailers of tobacco products. Requires annual, random, unannounced compliance checks of each tobacco retailer. Provides civil penalties for violation of the ordinance, including a graduated system of fines. If you would like to voice your opinion, contact us or contact your local policy makers . Passing youth access ordinances raises concerns for some.
Cigarettes are easy to steal.
In fact, grocery retailers have reported cigarettes as the item stolen most often. The tobacco industry has encouraged the use of self-service displays by providing financial incentives. Putting tobacco behind the counter will cut theft of cigarettes and spit tobacco dramatically. Vendor assistance deters underage tobacco buyers who are intimidated by sales clerk interaction. Placing tobacco products out of reach reinforces the message that tobacco products are not in the same class as candy or potato chips.