Multi-state accord would reduce tobacco sales to minors

A model holds an unlit cigarette in her mouth backstage before a fashion show in New York September 15, 2010.

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The companies that own Circle K, Dairymart and On The Run stores reached an agreement on Tuesday with 39 state attorneys general to curb tobacco sales to minors.

The multi-state effort will result in comprehensive training for store employees and independent compliance checks as some 250 stores.

"Many adult smokers start their habit at an early age," Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan said in a statement announcing the deal. "By preventing teens' access to cigarettes, we're working to deter them from picking up this deadly habit."

Madigan has worked to secure similar agreements with gas station convenience stores selling fuel under the Conoco, Phillips 66 or 76, Exxon, Mobil, BP Amoco, Shell, Valero, ARCO and Chevron brand names, and retail and pharmacy chains Kroger, 7-Eleven, Walgreens, Rite Aid, CVS and Walmart.

(Reporting by Wendell Marsh; Editing by Greg McCune)