The Irvington Department of Health is monitoring tobacco retailers to check compliance with laws governing sales to minors. During the yearly campaign, called the Tobacco Age-of-Sale program, health inspectors visit stores with a police officer and an area youth to determine if retailers are selling to minors under 19, which is prohibited by law. “They have to ask the person for his age and verify the information by checking ID,” according to Sandy Harris, health officer and director. “If the youngster fails to produce a proper ID, the merchant must refuse to sell the tobacco,” she added.

 

Fines are $250 for the first offense, $500 for the second, and $1000 and possible loss of license for the third violation. “We want retailers to be in compliance,” Harris said.

 

Warnings signs at the point of display and the point of sale must also be posted, Harris added. They are available at the Irvington Department of Health, which is located in Town Hall on Civic Square and open Mondays to Fridays from 9:00 am until 4:30 pm.

 

For more information, call Harris at (973) 399-6647 or the main number at (973) 399-6641.

 

 

 

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