Department of Revenue reports on cigarette enforcement

Department of Revenue reports on cigarette enforcement activities

Since July 1, 2013, the Minnesota Department of Revenue has completed over 1,000 inspections of retailers to ensure they are selling only state-stamped cigarettes. The department has worked with law enforcement agencies in numerous seizures of unstamped cigarettes. State stamps on cigarettes are proof that the seller paid Minnesota’s cigarette taxes.

The increase in cigarette and tobacco taxes that took effect July 1, 2013, reflects the state’s commitment to emphasize a healthy community and reduce the number of young people using tobacco. The cigarette tax increase will also help cover the long-term public health costs associated with tobacco use.