New Restrictions on Tobacco Sales to Start in September

Beginning September 30, retailers must verify with photo identification the age of anyone younger than 30 who is trying to buy tobacco products—including electronic cigarettes—based on a final rule issued by the FDA; previously, this requirement applied to anyone younger than 27. In addition, the rule prohibits retailers from selling tobacco products through vending machines in establishments that people younger than 21 are allowed to enter at any time; previously, this restriction applied to places that people younger than 18 could enter. The requirements are in line with a 2019 law that raised the minimum age to buy tobacco in the United States from 18 to 21.