A bill raising the age to purchase tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes, and bring Kentucky’s statute in line with the new federal law, passed the state Senate by a 28-10 vote Friday.
The Legislative Research Commission says Senate Bill 56 would raise the age from 18 to 21 and remove status offenses for youth who purchase, use or possess tobacco products, often called PUP laws. The bill would still allow tobacco products to be confiscated but it would shift penalties to retailers who fail to follow the increased age restriction.
State Senator Ralph Alvarado (R-Winchester), a medical doctor and sponsor of the bill, said that putting children into the juvenile justice system could be counter-productive to their physical and mental health.
Senate Bill 56 now goes to the House of Representatives for its consideration.
