Running a retail business requires solid multi-tasking skills.  Keeping the store running -- making sure everything is stocked, systems are running properly and ensuring customers are happy is a demanding job. 

On top of these responsibilities is that of keeping on top of laws, regulations and store policies. In the case of tobacco and vaping products, the FDA regulates the sale and states do too.  Plus, your store policies may be designed to support these laws and the safety of your employees. 

Some states may have tougher laws or regulations than Federal laws and regulations.

This brings us to Best Practice #4:

Educate Employees About Federal Laws, FDA

Regulations, State Laws, Store Policies and why minors should not have access to age restricted products.

Make sure your employees understand FDA regulations, the state law and your store policies. 

Communicate with your employees about the critical role they play in identifying and denying underage tobacco and vaping purchase attempts along with the reasons it’s important to prevent those sales. 

To check out We Card’s state and federal law and regulation summaries, click here.  And if you’re interested in training that teaches these laws and regulations and the reasons why you shouldn’t sell to someone under the legal age, click here.  To see how your store is doing, take our best practices survey and download our Guide to Best Practices.

For questions about We Card, our initiatives, practices and products, visit www.wecard.org, or contact us at 1-800-934-3968 or comments@wecard.org.