Across Oregon, communities are stepping up to help keep young people healthy and safe by reducing their access to commercial tobacco products. A big part of this success comes from local retailers who take their role seriously and choose to put community wellbeing first.
Every day, store clerks and managers across the state are checking IDs carefully, talking with their teams about the age‑21 law, and building routines that make it easier to prevent illegal sales. These small, consistent actions are adding up to a big difference for Oregon’s youth.
Strong communities start with responsible retailers
Retailers are often the first line of defense when it comes to preventing youth nicotine addiction. When a clerk chooses to slow down and ask for ID, or when a manager provides clear training and expectations, they’re not just following the law, they’re helping protect the health of the entire community.
These decisions matter. By preventing illegal tobacco sales, stores help reduce addiction, support safer neighborhoods, and create environments where young people can thrive. Many retailers tell us they feel proud knowing they’re helping keep kids healthy and supporting families in their communities.
Inspections support good practices
To help communities stay safe, trained young adult inspectors ages 18 to 20 visit stores and use their real ID to try to buy tobacco products. This helps identify places where more training might be helpful and highlights the many places doing the right thing.
When clerks refuse the sale, they receive a thankyou letter to recognize their work. Some stores even celebrate these moments with rewards or shoutouts. These positive experiences help build a culture where doing the right thing is noticed and appreciated.
Gold Beach retailers show how it’s done
In communities like Gold Beach, local businesses are setting a strong example.
Click here to watch how Gold Beach retailers are helping set the standard.
At McKay’s Market, staff get regular training on how to check IDs and how to spot signs of fraud. Manager Chalain Hatfield says that when clerks feel confident, they’re more likely to make safe choices that protect the community.
At Nesika Market, owner Jim Turner keeps things simple and consistent. If there’s any doubt about a customer’s age, staff know to stop and doublecheck. If a customer isn’t 21, the sale doesn’t happen—no exceptions.
These stores show that when retailers put community health first, everyone benefits.
Oregon Health Authority provides support and resources for retailers
To help keep communities healthy, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) offers training manuals, fact sheets, checklists, and other tools to help stores stay in compliance with tobacco laws. Retailers can contact us anytime for help or guidance:
• Website: healthoregon.org/tobaccoretailsales
• Email: Tobacco.Inspections@odhsoha.oregon.gov
• Phone: 9716732283
OHA shared a press release on April 30 about the 2025 Tobacco Retail Inspection Report and information about the inspection process. Read it here: Oregon sees big gains in youth protection through tobacco retail compliance.
Oregon is strongest when we work together. Thanks to the commitment of retailers, community partners, and local leaders, more young people are being protected from nicotine addiction and set on a path for healthier futures.
Note: Commercial tobacco products include items such as cigarettes, cigars, vapes, and nicotine pouches. This does not include traditional or ceremonial tobacco used by American Indian and Alaska Native communities.