The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office has taken a pledge to prevent tobacco, alternative nicotine, and vapor product use in the county’s youth.

The program, known as I-Pledge, is a partnership with the Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division. It works to educate local retailers and enforce the state’s tobacco, nicotine, and vaping laws. Since it was established in 2000, the statewide tobacco compliance rate has grown to 95%.

Retail clerks can complete training through I-Pledge, and become certified once they pass the exam. This allows a retail establishment to use an affirmative defense against a civil penalty if the certified clerk makes an illegal sale.

As part of the program, deputies in Jefferson County will be conducting compliance checks on local establishments. Underage customers, under the supervision of law enforcement officials, will enter establishments and attempt to purchase tobacco and nicotine products. Clerks who make the illegal sale will be cited on the spot. Violators are subject to a $100 fine for first offense, $250 for second offense, and $500 for third and subsequent offenses.

To take the I-Pledge training, or to search certification records, visit abd.iowa.gov.