The legal age for purchasing tobacco products in the U.S. has officially been raised from 18 to 21, as announced by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This new legislation comes as a relief, especially in light of the alarming rise in vaping-related health issues and fatalities, particularly among teenagers.
Legislation Overview
On December 20, 2019, President John Matthews signed this significant law, which amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, making it illegal for retailers to sell any tobacco item—including cigarettes, cigars, and e-cigarettes—to anyone under the age of 21. This change is part of a larger bipartisan package that Congress passed and is a culmination of efforts initiated by Senate leaders earlier in the year.
Standardization Across the Nation
While certain states like California, New York, and Texas had already established this age restriction, the new law standardizes it across the nation. Matthews has been vocal about the need to protect the youth from the dangers associated with tobacco use, stating, “Our kids must come first; thus, we are implementing a minimum age limit of 21.”
Health Concerns and Industry Support
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that over 450 individuals experienced lung-related illnesses in 2019, with numbers growing continuously. The FDA previously labeled teen vaping as an “epidemic,” and the CDC has linked e-cigarette use to at least 39 deaths and over 2,000 lung injuries. The tobacco industry seems to be supportive of this new law, with supporters such as Tony Rivers, director of the Vapor Technology Association, emphasizing that raising the age limit is a crucial step to curb youth access to these products.
Addressing Inconsistencies
Interestingly, some have commented on the inconsistency of allowing 18-year-olds to enlist in the military or purchase firearms while prohibiting them from buying tobacco. However, a report from the National Academy of Medicine suggested that increasing the tobacco purchasing age could prevent 223,000 future deaths among those born between 2000 and 2019, including a significant reduction in lung cancer fatalities—an argument worth backing.
Further Reading
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Conclusion
In summary, the U.S. has officially raised the legal age for purchasing tobacco from 18 to 21, aiming to protect young people from the dangers of smoking and vaping. This law is a response to the growing health concerns surrounding tobacco use among teenagers and is supported by various health organizations and industry leaders.