IMPORTANT NEWS...

The Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco Partners with Local Law Enforcement on Underage Sales Sweep

Oct. 2, 2008

Punta Gorda—Yesterday, in partnership with the Punta Gorda Police Department, the Department of Business and Professional Regulation’s Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco conducted an enforcement sweep in the City of Punta Gorda, targeting the sale of alcohol and tobacco to minors.  Compliance checks were conducted at 19 commercial establishments licensed to sell alcoholic beverages and tobacco products within the City of Punta Gorda.   The agents found a 89.5 percent compliance rate with laws regarding the sale of alcohol and tobacco to minors.  

“We are always eager to partner with local law enforcement to ensure compliance with the laws regarding sales to minors,” said Secretary of the Department of Business and Professional Regulation Charles W. Drago.  “We look forward to partnering with the Punta Gorda Police Department in the future.”

Yesterday’s operation is the result of a continuing partnership between ABT and the Punta Gorda Police Department to curb the illegal sale of alcohol and tobacco to minors.  ABT, the Punta Gorda Police Department along with Drug-Free Charlotte County will continue to work with retail establishments where violations occur to ensure that employees receive the proper education regarding the sale of alcohol and tobacco. 

The mission of ABT is to keep alcohol and tobacco out of the hands of underage persons, to ensure that licensed establishments are in compliance with the laws and rules regulating the industry in Florida, and to collect taxes and fees related to these industries.

The Department’s mission is to license efficiently and regulate fairly.  The Department licenses more than one million businesses and professionals ranging from real estate agents, veterinarians, and accountants to contractors and cosmetologists.  For more information, please visit www.MyFloridaLicense.com.

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