North Liberty Police plan tobacco compliance checks

Lang
11/16/22

The city of North Liberty is planning to conduct tobacco compliance checks in the near future.

According to a news release from the city, North Liberty Police officers will be conducting compliance checks on local establishments as part of the I-PLEDGE program. I-PLEDGE is a partnership between the Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division (ABO) and local law enforcement entities to educate local retailers and to enforce Iowa’s tobacco, alternative nicotine and vapor product laws.

Underage customers, under the supervision of law enforcement officials, will enter establishments and attempt to buy tobacco, alternative nicotine and vapor products. Clerks who make the illegal sale will be cited on the spot.

Criminal penalties for selling tobacco, alternative nicotine and vapor products to a minor include a $135 fine for a first offense, a $325 fine for a second offense and a $645 fine for third and subsequent offenses.

There is no indication from the NLPD on when the compliance checks might begin.