Estherville, IA (northwestiowanow.com) — The Estherville Police Department is partnering with the Iowa Department of Revenue for the I-PLEDGE program, aimed at keeping tobacco, alternative nicotine, and vapor products out of the hands of minors. The program, which has raised Iowa’s tobacco compliance rate to 91%, focuses on educating local retailers and enforcing tobacco laws. Retailers can become I-PLEDGE-certified by completing online training, which helps prevent illegal sales. Officers will conduct compliance checks, and clerks who sell to minors will face fines. The goal is to educate and maintain a responsible, compliant retail environment.

To take the I-PLEDGE training, or search certification records, go to revenue.iowa.gov.