Compliance checks began in Eau Claire County in 2002 through the Wisconsin Wins Program to determine if Eau Claire County merchants are observing Wisconsin State Statute 134.66, which prohibits the sale of any tobacco product to a minor under the age of 18.  The Health Department has partnerships with our six law enforcement agencies to collaboratively conduct compliance checks countywide on an ongoing basis.  A letter from the Health Department is sent annually to all license holders to remind them of these ongoing investigations.

Compliance checks are conducted by a trained team of four individuals.  Two adults (staff supervisor and an observer) and two youth 15-17 years old (buyer and observer) perform compliance checks in cooperation with law enforcement.  A letter is sent by the Health Department within 24-72 hours of the check to the establishment informing them of the investigation and result.   If a sale is not made, a Thank You certificate is sent along with the letter.   If a sale is made, law enforcement follows up with training requirements or a citation.

History of Tobacco Compliance Check Rates

About Wisconsin Wins

The Eau Claire City-County Health Department contracts with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services to conduct investigations through the Wisconsin Wins Program.  The Wisconsin Wins (WI Wins) campaign is a science-based, state-level initiative designed to decrease youth access to tobacco products. WI Wins was launched in the spring of 2002 as part of a comprehensive approach to preventing youth access to tobacco.

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services contracts with local partners to conduct investigations to establish retailer compliance with the law. Local initiatives also include retailer education and training, media outreach, and community education. www.wiwins.org