The Wyoming Department of Health (WDH) is seeking public comment on a report highlighting youth access to tobacco in the state.
“Wyoming is required to conduct random, unannounced inspections of tobacco outlets such as convenience stores that youth can legally visit,” said Rachel Nuss, prevention block grant coordinator with WDH. “These inspections help us see how well tobacco retailers follow state law, which says tobacco products may not be sold to minors.”
Nuss said the national goal for the retailer violation rate is targeted at 20 percent or less. “Wyoming’s violation rate was approximately 12 percent this past year, which is unfortunately quite a bit higher than the last few years while also lower than the national goal,” she said.
The inspections and annual report are required by the federal Synar Amendment, which aims to decrease youth access to tobacco. All states must enact and enforce laws prohibiting the sale or distribution of tobacco products to individuals younger than 18.
A 2017 Annual Synar Report draft for Wyoming is available online for review and comment at https://health.wyo.gov/publichealth/prevention/substanceabuseandsuicide/publications-and-reports/synar/.
Written comments must be filed no later than 5 p.m. December 15. Comments may be emailed to rachel.nuss1@wyo.gov or mailed to:
Wyoming Department Health
Public Health Division
Attention: Rachel Nuss
6101 Yellowstone Road, Suite 510
Cheyenne, WY 82002