Indiana state legislators will debate the idea of raising the minimum age to purchase tobacco products to 21-years-old this session after the introduction of S.B. 425 recently.
The bill, which is sponsored by Sens. Randall Head, R-18, and James Merritt, R-31, would increase the age which a person must be to either sell or buy tobacco products or e-liquids and electronic cigarettes containing nicotine, as well as to enter designated smoking areas of a club or cigar specialty store. However, both come with exemptions for persons who are at least 18 years of age on June 30, 2019 or are currently serving in the armed forces or reserves or a veteran discharged or separated from service in the armed forces or reserves under conditions other than dishonorable.
It would also make it illegal for a person under 18 to buy or possess e-liquids or electronic cigarettes that do not contain nicotine.
The bill has been referred to the Senate Committee on Health and Provider Services. The bill would go into effect on July 1 should it pass.
