No BUTS!

No BUTS (Blocking Underage Tobacco Sales) is Maines innovative outreach and training program to promote responsible tobacco sales. No BUTS is the most comprehensive and effective program ever offered to Maine retailers. It reminds employers, managers and employees that, along with stiff fines and penalties for selling tobacco to underage consumers, there is a compelling public health incentive for blocking tobacco sales to minors.

The program was created jointly by the Maine State Attorney General's Office and the PTM.

• Participating retailers receive a kit complete with:

• A step-by-step Employer Guide for implementing the No BUTS program.

• A video and easy-to-read Employee Guide for training sales clerks.

• A No BUTS window poster, door decal, and counter mat.A counter calendar that helps employees calculate a customers age quickly and easily.

No BUTS was established to address two major issues

1. Underage tobacco use is a major public health crisis in Maine.
   
   • One in four Maine high school students use tobacco products. Many start as young as 12 or 13.
     
   • 2,400 Maine kids start smoking every year and 27,000 of them will die prematurely from their tobacco addiction.
     
2. Enforcement of tobacco sales is a vital component in combating underage tobacco use. No BUTS enhances Maines enforcement efforts two ways:
   
   • The program gives retailers the tools they need to avoid selling tobacco to minors.
     
   • No BUTS rewards the overwhelming majority of Maine retailers who are already doing a good job

So far, more than 500 retailers have signed on to the No BUTS program, including some of the major chains in Maine.

For most retailers, No BUTS is voluntary. Some retailers, who have had past violations with respect to underage tobacco sales, have agreed to implement the program as part of court-approved settlement agreements.

For more information click here.