DPH Survey Finds Illegal Tobacco Sales to Minors Down

A recent survey released by the California Department of Public Health finds that the rate of illegal tobacco sales to minors by retail outlets in the state was 7.6% this year, compared with 9% last year. DPH Director Karen Smith said, "For seven consecutive years, the rate of illegal tobacco sales to minors has remained under 10%," but she noted that the state is aiming to reduce the rate to 5% or less by 2020. Smith said, "I'm concerned that too many stores, especially certain types such as tobacco-only stores and convenience stores, are willing to illegally sell tobacco products to youth."

• "Tobacco Sales to Minors on the Decline" (Turlock Journal, 10/22).