Representatives in the Vermont House of Representatives are delaying a discussion to be had on whether or not to raise the minimum age to purchase tobacco products from 18 to 21, but promise that it will be back on the table later in the session.
According to an Associated Press report, the age change was being pursued via a provision to a bill that would impose other restrictions on smoking and was said to have “broad support.” However, Rep. George Till, D-Chittenden, who introduced it, later withdrew it after objections from his colleagues that it hadn’t gone through the proper processes, including going through committee hearings. House Democratic leadership promised that the proposal would be considered again as separate legislation.
News of the proposed age change came up in late January when H.616 was introduced with the support of 26 representatives. It would also make possession of tobacco products by those under 21 illegal, with the exception that members of the military between the ages of 18 and 20 would still be able to legally purchase and possess tobacco products as long as they have valid military identification.