The Waterloo Police Department will soon be conducting tobacco compliance checks at local businesses to ensure that merchants are selling tobacco products in accordance with the State Code of Iowa.

This “ipledge2id” project, which is funded through the Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division – Tobacco Enforcement Program, is intended to help businesses remain compliant with the law.

If a violation were to occur, the fine for the employee selling the tobacco to a person under the age of 18 is the following under 453A.2(1):

1^st Offense            100.00 fine       35.00 surcharge   60.00 court cost      195.00 total fine

2^nd Offense            250.00 fine       35.00 surcharge   60.00 court cost      397.50 total fine

3^rd Offense            500.00 fine       35.00 surcharge   60.00 court cost      735.00 total fine

The business where the offense occurs is also subject to state administrative action and civil penalties.

The Waterloo Police Department’s goal is to work with and educate merchants so they are compliant with the law. Please contact the Waterloo Police Department if you have any questions pertaining to this law.

Captain Tim Pillack
Waterloo Police Department
319-291-4336