(Spirit Lake)– Spirit Lake police will once again be participating in a program intended to help keep tobacco and vape products out of the hands of those not of age.
The I-PLEDGE program is being offered in conjunction with the Iowa Alcholic Beverages Division.
Under the program, all retail stores in the city that sell tobacco, alternative nicotine and vaping products will undergo a check. Under officer supervision, a minor under the age of 18 will be sent to the retail location to attempt to purchase a product they cannot legally possess. If the minor is able to make the purchase without being questioned about their age, it is considered a failed check. If the minor is denied the purchase, the check is considered successful.
Officials say retailer education is a key part of the program. Clerks who successfully complete an online training course and then pass an exam will become I-PLEDGE certified. It allows an establishment to use an affirmative defense against a civil penalty if the certified clerk makes an illegal sale. They add it also helps ensure retailers maintain a compliant and responsible establishment.
More information can be found at abd.iowa.gov/.
