Lamont signs bill increasing Connecticut’s smoking age to 21

HARTFORD, Conn. – Gov. Ned Lamont has signed legislation that increases the age to purchase cigarettes and other tobacco products to 21.

The bill signed into law Tuesday by the Democrat also prohibits the sale of electronic cigarettes and vaping products to anyone under 21. The new law takes effects on Oct. 1.

Harold Wimmer, president and CEO of the American Lung Association, says such “Tobacco 21” laws are “more important than ever” given the increase in youth e-cigarette use. He says adolescents and young adults are uniquely vulnerable to the effects of nicotine and nicotine addiction, making Connecticut’s legislation “an important, life-saving measure.”

The law also bans smoking on the grounds of child care centres and schools.

Critics of the legislation have complained it violates the rights of adults ages 18 to 21.