Decorah Police Partner With State on I-PLEDGE Program

You'll want to remember this moment. Help us record what's happening in Decorah. DECORAH — The Decorah Police Department has pledged to help keep tobacco, alternative nicotine and vapor products out of the hands of underage individuals through participation in the I-PLEDGE program. I-PLEDGE is a partnership with the Iowa Department of Revenue that focuses on retailer education and enforcement of Iowa's tobacco, alternative nicotine and vapor product laws. Since the program began in 2000, the statewide tobacco compliance rate has increased to more than 90%. By participating, the Decorah Police Department aims to further improve compliance locally. The program emphasizes retailer training. Clerks who complete an online course and pass an exam become I-PLEDGE certified, allowing retailers to use an affirmative defense against a civil penalty if a certified clerk makes an illegal sale. "I-PLEDGE's retailer training is a great way for clerks to prepare themselves to refuse illegal tobacco, alternative nicotine and vapor product sales," said Sgt. Adam Ytzen. "The training also helps retailers maintain a compliant and responsible establishment." As part of the program, officers will conduct compliance checks using underage buyers under law enforcement supervision. Clerks who make illegal sales will be cited. Penalties include fines of $135 for a first offense, $325 for a second offense and $645 for third and subsequent offenses. Enforcement, however, is not the program's primary goal. "By partnering with the Iowa Department of Revenue, we hope to educate clerks and maintain a compliant retail environment in our community," Ytzen said. More information, including training and certification records, is available at revenue.iowa.gov. Get the inside scoop! Subscribe to the free DecorahNews.com newsletter and receive local news, expert analysis, and stories that matter most—straight to your inbox.