Enforcing law on tobacco sales to minors: getting the question and action right.
There is a substantial history of health-related law in Australia, but only recently has this included a significant amount of state regulation pertaining to tobacco promotion, sale and public use. The important question is: under what circumstances do regulation and law enforcement work? Rigorous, energetic, long-term local law enforcement on the supply of tobacco to minors demonstrates success in preventing uptake. A model for success combines education, enforcement and publicity; a model used to some effect in alcohol law. Future directions in regulation might include on-the-spot penalties; ensuring the law is simple and has community support; striving for sufficient resources, enthusiasm and skills; and making the tobacco retail industry pay some of the costs of regulating that industry.
Tutt
Douglas C
DC
Health Promotion, Northern Sydney Central Coast Area Health Service. dtutt@nsccahs.health.nsw.gov.au
D000293:Adolescent; D000294:Adolescent Behavior; D001315:Australia / Q000453:epidemiology; D003132:Commerce / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D006801:Humans; D035846:Law Enforcement; D033242:Minors / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D011634:Public Health / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D012907:Smoking / Q000453:epidemiology; D000074606:Smoking Prevention