Health minister raise age limit cigarette sale 18 21

A great topic!

In many countries, there have been efforts to increase the minimum age limit for the sale of tobacco products, including cigarettes, to reduce the number of young people who start smoking and to protect public health.

Here are some recent developments on this issue:

Raising the minimum age limit to 21:

• In the United States, the Tobacco 21 law was signed into effect in December 2019, raising the minimum age limit for the sale of tobacco products, including cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and vaping products, from 18 to 21 years old.
• Several states in the US, including California, New York, and Massachusetts, had already raised their minimum age limits to 21 before the federal law was passed.

Raising the minimum age limit to 18:

• In the European Union, the minimum age limit for the sale of tobacco products is 18 years old, and many countries have implemented this age limit.
• In Australia, the minimum age limit for the sale of tobacco products is also 18 years old.

Arguments for raising the minimum age limit:

• Reducing the number of young people who start smoking: By increasing the minimum age limit, it is hoped that fewer young people will be able to access tobacco products and start smoking.
• Protecting public health: Smoking is a major risk factor for many serious health problems, including heart disease, lung cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Raising the minimum age limit can help to reduce the number of people who smoke and the number of smoking-related deaths.
• Reducing the appeal of smoking: Raising the minimum age limit can also help to reduce the appeal of smoking to young people, who may see smoking as a more adult activity.

Arguments against raising the minimum age limit:

• Disproportionate impact on certain groups: Some argue that raising the minimum age limit could have a disproportionate impact on certain groups, such as low-income or minority communities, who may have limited access to alternative nicotine products or may be more likely to smoke due to social and economic factors.
• Lack of effectiveness: Some argue that raising the minimum age limit may not be an effective way to reduce smoking rates, as many young people may still be able to access tobacco products through illegal means or online.

Conclusion:

Raising the minimum age limit for the sale of tobacco products is a complex issue, with both proponents and opponents presenting valid arguments. While some argue that raising the minimum age limit can help to reduce the number of young people who start smoking and protect public health, others argue that it may have unintended consequences and may not be an effective way to reduce smoking rates. Ultimately, the decision to raise the minimum age limit will depend on the specific context and the goals of the policy.