To snuff out underage smoking, retailers across Dakota County are recording higher marks on tobacco compliance checks with a 93 percent pass rate in 2023, a notable climb from 91 percent the previous year—marking a positive trend for the fourth consecutive year, according to Dakota County.

Out of 276 compliance checks conducted last year, there were only 18 violations but while Dakota County may be seeing success on the tobacco front, the same can’t be said of alcohol, with a two-point dip in compliance seeing 35 violations out of 461 checks, which puts them at a lower 92 percent pass rate, compared to 94 percent before, the county’s efforts to tighten the reins on underage tobacco and alcohol sales continues apace, bolstered by ongoing education for retailers.

Dakota County Sheriff's Office and local police departments from cities such as Apple Valley and Burnsville keep a vigilant eye on vendors, performing regular checks to ensure laws are followed—failure to comply can lead to citations and mandatory education on liquor and tobacco laws, as per Dakota County.

The Sheriff's Office doesn't just bust rule breakers it provides support through information sheets, signage, and ID check reminders, which are dispensed to businesses during compliance checks—these measures paired with Dakota County Public Health’s push for retailers to enforce written employee policies on legal responsibilities also help to mitigate underage sales of restricted substances.