Watch CBS News

Denver May Raise Legal Age To Buy Tobacco Products To 21

DENVER (CBS4)- The City and County of Denver Department of Public Health & Environment wants to raise the legal age to buy tobacco and nicotine products to 21. It's a step health officials say will prevent thousands of teens from accessing these products.

DENVER SMOKING AGE_frame_629
(credit: CBS)

City leaders say usage of tobacco and nicotine products in increasing rapidly and research shows those who try e-cigarettes are more likely to smoke tobacco later in life. The policy change could stop the trend and promote public health, according to the health department.

DENVER SMOKING AGE_frame_1138
(credit: CBS)

A city council committee met on Wednesday to discuss increasing the legal age from 18 to 21. Those against it say raising the age won't stop kids from getting cigarettes or vapes.

cigarette smoking generic
(credit: iStock/Getty Images Plus)

The new law would not only raise the legal age from 18, it would also remove the sale of tobacco products from vending machines. One of the concerns related to vape products is the variety of flavors, options that can appeal to young teens.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.