Whether through We Card or FDA programs such as This Is Our Watch, one thing is certain: The industry is doing an excellent job in complying with federal tobacco laws. Since the FDA first began conducting retail compliance checks in 2010, tobacco retailers have passed inspections more than 90% of the time.
Initial results from the FDA’s own long-term Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health (PATH) study confirm that minors are rarely turning to retail outlets to obtain tobacco and vapor products. According to the study, only 14% of the 15- to 17-year-olds surveyed reported buying cigarettes for themselves and 11% reported buying e-cigarettes for themselves.
Zeller acknowledged the industry’s dedication to age verification and training efforts when speaking at the 2015 NACS Show.
“I applaud industry efforts on compliance. Coming to events like this, it's reassuring to see how seriously you take your responsibility to comply with the law.”
Mitch Zeller, NACS Show, October 2015