Illegal tobacco sales to Wisconsin minors decreased significantly in 2009, according to a sales compliance report released Monday.
The 2009 Synar sales compliance survey reported that the number of retail outlets that illegally sold tobacco to minors decreased from 7.2 percent to 5.7 percent, a 20-percent decrease from 2008.
In a statement, Gov. Jim Doyle said he was thankful for retailers' commitment to preventing minors from purchasing tobacco.
""In Wisconsin, we are working hard to protect our kids from the scourge of tobacco … Our state has a long history of preventing youth tobacco sales, and I'm pleased our efforts are paying off,"" he said in a statement.
This year marks the seventh straight year Wisconsin fell below the target rate of 20 percent or less.
In May, Doyle signed legislation establishing a statewide smoking ban in workplaces including taverns and restaurants.
