Less than a year ago, a proposal to raise the minimum age to purchase tobacco products failed in Jefferson City, the state capitol of Missouri. Yesterday, the city council approved a proposal to do the same thing by a 6-4 vote, enacting a change that goes into effect immediately.
The new law also applies to vaping products, and while adults under 21 will no longer be able to purchase tobacco, possession will not be deemed a crime.
Fines for businesses that are sell tobacco or vaping products to a person under 21 start at $100, while a second violation in two years jumps to $250. A third violation within two years carries a $500 fine.
Jefferson City joins Kansas City as well as Bonner Springs, Gardner, Gladstone, Independence, Leawood, Olathe and Prairie Village to have approved age increases.
Jefferson City has a population of around 44,000 residents.
