Big Island and Kauai Stores Increase Tobacco Sales to Minors

Source from:  By Associated Press HONOLULU (AP) 09/24/2007

A state study found that more than one out of six stores on the Big Island and Kauai illegally sell cigarettes to underage buyers. The Hawaii Department of Health report released Friday found significant increases from last year on the Big Island and Kauai. About 17 percent of Big Island and Kauai stores sold tobacco to minors, compared to 10 percent of Big Island stores and 0 percent of Kauai stores selling to minors last year. Statewide, 8.7 percent of stores sold tobacco to minors this year, compared to 5.9 percent in 2006. Lt. Gov. James ``Duke'' Aiona says Hawaii is doing well compared to other states. Hawaii is ranked behind only Delaware and Arkansas in merchant compliance with cigarette laws. Enditem