Topeka, Kan., Bans Sale of Tobacco Products to Those Under 21

Also, Robbinsdale, Minn., becomes the latest city to limit the sale of flavored tobacco products.

December 08, 2017

TOPEKA, Kan. – Topeka’s governing board okayed a measure that limits the sale of tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes, to customers age 21 and older, The Topeka (Kan.) Capital-Journal/Associated Press/KWCH-TV reports. Councilwoman Elaine Schwartz introduced the proposal, which overturns the current minimum tobacco buying age of 18.

More than 270 localities in 18 states have 21 as the minimum buying age for tobacco products. Five states have a higher tobacco buying age of 21: California, Hawaii, Maine, New Jersey and Oregon. For more, read “Must Be 21 to Buy” in NACS Magazine.

Meanwhile, the Robbinsdale (Minn.) City Council approved a measure to only allow those age 18 and older to purchase flavored tobacco sales—and only at shops with tobacco generating 90% of overall sales, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. The ordinance also places a minimum sale price for cigars ($2.60) and packs of four or more ($10.40). Four other Minnesota cities have similar restrictions on flavored tobacco: Minneapolis, Plymouth, Shoreview, St. Louis Park and St. Paul.

Minneapolis is also considering prohibiting the sale of menthol cigarettes. San Francisco recently banned the sale of menthol and flavored tobacco products in retail stores, which goes into effect next April.

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