On August 29, 2024, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced a final rule that raises the minimum age for certain restrictions on tobacco product sales. Once implemented, the requirements are expected to help decrease underage tobacco sales.

Beginning September 30, retailers must verify with photo identification (ID) the age of anyone under the age of 30 who is trying to purchase tobacco products, including e-cigarettes. Previously, this requirement applied to anyone under the age of 27. It’s important for retailers to request and examine photo IDs to verify age from anyone under 30, regardless of appearance, as research has shown that it is difficult for retailers to accurately determine the age of a customer from appearance alone.

FDA.gov

ONS Perspective

Reducing tobacco-related cancers by promoting education, supporting access to cessation programs, advocating for smoke-free workplaces, and preventing youth smoking, among other policies is a long-held ONS position. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data show that most individuals begin smoking before 18, with many teens able to purchase cigarettes or obtain them from older friends. In 2015, the National Academy of Medicine published a report that highlighted that raising the minimum age to buy tobacco to 21 could prevent 223,000 deaths among people born between 2000 and 2019. Strictly enforcing this law through more rigorous ID checks will help ensure its effectiveness.

Stay up to date on opportunities for you to help advocate for tobacco cessation by registering at the ONS Action Center.

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