Federal law ups age to purchase tobacco

On Dec. 20, President Donald Trump signed a $1.4 trillion spending package that increasing the includes federal minimum age to purchase cigarettes and other tobacco products, including e-vapor products, from 18 to 21.

The announcement, posted on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration website, noted, "It is now illegal for a retailer to sell any tobacco product - including cigarettes, cigars and e-cigarettes - to anyone under 21."

The FDA regulates all tobacco products.

While the FDA has 180 days to finalize implementation of the age rule and requires it take effect no more than 90 days after it is finalized, the age requirement is effect immediately.

Nebraska statutes will require buyers to be age 19 to purchase tobacco and related products, effective Jan. 1.

Legislators could address the bill during the upcoming 2020 session and up the age to

meet federal requirements.

According to details in the bill, approximately $18.5 million each fiscal year through Sept. 2024, will be allotted for states to use to promote smoking cessation and prevent use by individuals under 21.

According to the Altria Group Distribution Company, a tobacco distributor representing several businesses in the area, "We believe this is an important step in reducing youth access to tobacco."

Hi-Way Mart, in Clearwater, and Dusty's, in Orchard, are following the federal mandate. The Farmers Store in Page and Royal One Stop are waiting for additional information.