Frequently Asked Questions

Are tobacco companies required to pay anything toward prevention efforts?
No

Who is responsible for making sure businesses and employees do not sell to minors?
The business/store owners.

Are there any incentive programs for businesses?
For businesses that do not comply, technical assistance will be offered by way of training their personnel how to comply with the law. It is our understanding that the WV Alcohol Beverage Control Administration (ABCA) offers technical assistance through the TIPS Program. In 2001, Tobacco Retailer Education materials (available at www.prevnet.org - click on the Communication and Information Sharing button and scroll down to Tobacco Retailer Education Materials) were sent to all businesses in WV. Funding for production and distribution of the materials as well as the list of businesses was provided to the WVPRC through the WV Department of Health & Human Resources: Bureau for Public Health: Office of Epidemiology & Health Promotion: Division of Tobacco Prevention, which had obtained the mailing list from the WV Tax Department.

Who compiles information from inspections?
The WV Department of Health & Human Resources: Bureau for Public Health - WV Health Statistics Center.

Where does the information go?
Synar Regulation requires that the results of the inspections are reported to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. The Governor also receives the information.

Additional FAQs pertaining to Synar Regulation are available by viewing the
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s Synar FAQ.