The Upper Moreland Police Department announced that their Criminal Investigations Unit has partnered with the Counsel of Southeast Pennsylvania to conduct compliance checks within the township’s local businesses that sell tobacco and/or vape products.

So far, 11 stores within the township were found to have violated the provisions of Pennsylvania state law by selling tobacco or vape products to a person under the age of 21, police said. A total 14 citations were issued to the stores and/or employees that were found to be in violation.

According to their announcement, the compliance checks were a response to numerous complaints from parents who expressed concerns about their children being sold products.

From the announcement:

The Counsel of Southeast Pennsylvania is contracted by the Pennsylvania Department of Health to ensure businesses selling tobacco products are compliant with state laws. They are also responsible for educating businesses and employees on the laws.

Today, 17 of the 27 stores licensed to sell tobacco and vape products within Upper Moreland Township were checked using an employee from the Counsel of Southeast Pennsylvania. Of the 17 stores checked, 11 stores violated the provisions of Pennsylvania state law by selling tobacco or vape products to a person under the age of 21. A total 14 citations were issued to the stores and/or employees that were found to be in violation.

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