The Guam Behavioral Health and Wellness Center, in partnership with the Department of Revenue and Taxation, has completed its annual island-wide tobacco retailer compliance inspections, achieving a 94.4% compliance rate in 2024.

The inspections are part of efforts to prevent youth access to tobacco products, as required by the federal Synar Amendment. 

This year, 270 tobacco retailers were inspected, with 15 found in violation of selling tobacco or disposable e-cigarettes to minors, resulting in penalties ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 per violation.

GBHWC Director Carissa Pangelinan emphasized the importance of these inspections in safeguarding Guam’s youth and highlighted the stricter policies introduced by recent legislation aimed at strengthening tobacco control.