Proclamation on Tobacco Free Youth

Whereas under Wisconsin law it is illegal to sell tobacco products to persons under the age of 18 years; and

Whereas scientific research has demonstrated there is a connection between early tobacco use and later use of hard drugs, lower academic achievement and risky adolescent behavior, and

Whereas, as a result, all of us have an interest in preventing young people from obtaining and using tobacco products; and

Whereas preventing the illegal sale of tobacco products to young people makes an important contribution to the goals of academic achievement, productivity, health and safety of our youth…

Therefore, we the signers of this proclamation want to be a part of ensuring a healthy future for our youth.  Accordingly, we

Support and encourage merchants to refuse to sell tobacco     to persons under the age of 18 years, and

Urge all Wisconsin residents to take all necessary steps to ensure that our young people cannot obtain or use cigarettes, smokeless tobacco or any other tobacco product.

Signed by the Chief of Police and the Mayor of the City of Rhinelander June 11, 2007

Chief Michael Steffes                                                       Mayor Richard Johns