KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON - This year, North Bend retailers have continued their strong compliance with tobacco laws as all 14 retailers recently checked during tobacco stings (compliance checks) refused to sell tobacco to under-age youth. The 100% compliance rate shows an improvement from last year in North Bend and a consistent high compliance rate during recent years. More checks are planned throughout the year all across King County.

"We are very pleased with the recent results and hope to see similar results in many other cities throughout the year," said Dr. Alonzo Plough, Director of Public Health - Seattle & King County. "Each day 3,000 more youth become addicted to tobacco in our nation and retailers are a first line of defense."

During these compliance checks, retailers refusing to sell tobacco to minors are congratulated in person and given an information packet. Those caught selling tobacco to a minor receive fines from the Liquor Control Board and are educated regarding selling tobacco responsibly. A fist time offense results in a $100 fine for the retailer and a $50 fine for the clerk. Repeat offenders may be fined up to $1,000 and may have their license to sell cigarettes suspended.

State law prohibits merchants and adults from providing tobacco products to anyone younger than 18 years of age. Anyone who witnesses a merchant or other adults providing tobacco to a minor is encouraged to call his or her local Liquor Control Board to file a confidential complaint. The penalty for providing tobacco to a minor can be as high as $5,000.

If you have any questions, or would like more information about tobacco prevention, please visit our website at www.metrokc.gov/health/tobacco