The Wisconsin Wins (WI
Wins) campaign is a science-based, state-level initiative designed to decrease
youth access to tobacco products. The WI Wins campaign was launched in the
spring of 2002 to assure compliance with the Federal Synar regulation which
requires states to maintain a youth access rate of less than 20% and is part
of a comprehensive approach to preventing youth retail access to tobacco.
The program design uses a positive reinforcement protocol known as Recognition
and Reminder (R&R) to support retailers who "do the right thing"
and refuse to sell tobacco to minors. DHFS contracts with local partners,
including health departments and other human service agencies, to conduct
investigations to determine retailer compliance with the law. Local initiatives
also include retailer education and training, media, and community outreach
and education.
The program is enhanced by a statewide media campaign consisting of radio
and print ads. Direct mailings and phone contacts with retailers reinforce
the media message.