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Adopt an action plan with the mayors and municipalities
Municipalities are at the heart of the contraband tobacco problem. Illicit activities such as the sale, distribution and transport of contraband tobacco are taking place more frequently in their territories. The municipal police must deal with runners, sellers or consumers in possession of contraband tobacco as contraband cigarette butts pile up on municipal grounds, public walkways and even right in front of municipal buildings.
Cities and towns must demonstrate unwavering determination and zero tolerance towards contraband tobacco. Committed MPs can make a difference by acting as leaders in their respective communities.
MPs are best positioned in terms of being able to convince mayors to adopt public policies of zero tolerance towards contraband tobacco, including sending notices to municipal employees, endorsing awareness-raising campaigns for citizens and issuing warnings for those who might be tempted by this type of commerce.
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