Up North Prevention Strengthens Efforts to Prevent Underage Tobacco Sales

Up North Prevention is committed to protecting youth from the dangers of tobacco and nicotine by supporting enforcement of the Synar Amendment, enacted as part of the Federal Public Health Service Act. This federal program requires states to implement laws and enforcement measures that prohibit the sale and distribution of tobacco to anyone under the age of 21.

To help achieve state and federal goals of at least 80% compliance in preventing underage tobacco/nicotine sales, resource packets are distributed to all Michigan tobacco retailers. These packets include current sales information, prevention strategies, and signage to support clerks in refusing sales to underage customers. In addition, Up North Prevention staff provides educational materials and resources at community events, schools, parent groups, and retail outlets throughout the region.

Every spring, Synar tobacco compliance checks are conducted nationwide to determine whether local retailers are following youth tobacco laws. In Michigan, additional checks are completed during the summer at about 5% of all retail locations. In 2025, Northern Michigan retailers achieved an impressive 89% compliance rate. We commend those businesses that diligently checked IDs and refused sales to underage youth, helping to safeguard our communities.

To make compliance easier, the Michigan Secretary of State issues a vertical driver’s license for anyone under 21, with the 21st birthday printed in bold red on the front. This makes it simple for clerks to quickly determine whether a customer is old enough to purchase tobacco or e-cigarette products.

For more information about the Youth Tobacco Act or resources to support prevention, contact Up North Prevention at 231.261.8434.