Under a new law passed in California this week, residents of the state, with the exception of active duty military personnel, will have to be over 21 years of age in order to purchase tobacco products.
The legislation was signed into law on Wednesday, May 5th 2016 by Governor Jerry Brown, with advocates hoping it will decrease the likelihood of minors taking up the habit. The legislation not only targets cigarettes, but also places restrictions on chewing tobacco, and even e-cigarettes.
The new law will take effect on June 6, and allows for a fine of up to $5,000 against any company found have sold tobacco products to individuals under 21.
Data from the Institute of Medicine indicates that 90% of daily smokers picked up the habit before turning 19. Proponents of the law argue that preventing people from trying tobacco until later in life will lead to fewer people developing daily smoking habits. But critics disagree.
Republican lawmakers were largely opposed to the bill, and were joined by various veterans’ groups in arguing that those old enough to fight for their country, Americans 18 years of age, are old enough to make decisions regarding smoking. This line of reasoning likely resulted in the military exception to the law.
California becomes the second state to raise “legal” tobacco age to 21, following Hawaii which took the step in April. Many people believe that California’s decision will likely set a precedent, and encourage other states to follow suit.
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