IMPORTANT NEWS...
State Regulatory Agency Partners with Lee County to Reduce Sale of Tobacco Products to Minors
August 15, 2011
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation's Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco (ABT) has signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the Lee County Health Department to work together to combat the sale of tobacco products to underage persons. Under the agreement, ABT inspectors will perform nearly 700 compliance checks in businesses throughout Lee County, an increase of nearly 250 checks from last year.
"Keeping tobacco products out of the hands of minors is an important priority," said DBPR Secretary Ken Lawson. "This agreement solidifies our commitment to protect Florida's youth."
During each compliance check, ABT officers will supervise an underage investigative aide who will attempt to purchase tobacco products from a licensed business. Violators will receive a notice to appear in court and the license holder will undergo an investigation. Criminal charges will also be presented to the local state attorney's office.
The Department of Business and Professional Regulation's mission is to license efficiently and regulate fairly. The Department licenses and regulates nearly one million businesses and professionals ranging from real estate agents, veterinarians, and accountants to contractors and cosmetologists. For more information, please visit www.MyFloridaLicense.com.