U.S. FDA releases draft guidance document for retailers in advance of training programs..

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July 14, 2010 - The federal Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has posted a draft guidance document in advance of its tobacco retailer training programs. The draft guidance is intended to assist tobacco retailers in implementing effective training programs for employees to learn the federal laws restricting the sale and distribution of a tobacco product, including restrictions on the access to, and the advertising and promotion of, cigarettes and smokeless tobacco products, it said.

This document also provides retailers with guidance on implementing effective training on how to request and verify the photo identification of purchasers younger than 27 years of age and how to refuse the sale of cigarettes or smokeless tobacco to purchasers younger than 18 years of age, the FDA added.

Draft Guidance for Industry: Tobacco Retailer Training Programs

The FDA will hold five live retailer training sessions on the new federal tobacco regulations, Sessions will be held in Boston (July 19), Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas and Los Angeles (dates to be announced).

Retailers in neighboring areas and states are encouraged to register and attend, either in-person, via phone or webcast at the most convenient location. There is no charge to attend these training sessions.

Reference: FDA Retailer Training Update
Agency posts draft guidance for industry on tobacco retailer training programs, CSP Daily News, 7/14/2010.