MINNEAPOLIS -- After banning the sale of menthol cigarettes in August 2017, the Public Health Committee of Minneapolis on May 14 approved a proposal to raise the legal age to purchase tobacco products from 18 to 21. The measure is scheduled for a full council vote on May 25, according to a local Fox affiliate.
If passed, the new ordinance would go into effect in October, Fox 9 news reported.
Minneapolis lawmakers have a track record for imposing new rules that have an effect on convenience-store retailers. Last year, the city council passed restrictions on menthol-flavored tobacco products, allowing only age-restricted establishments such as smoke shops and liquor stores to sell the products.
Over the past couple of years, Minneapolis local lawmakers have sought to impose new rules on a number of retail issues, including plastic bags and minimum wage.
If the change in the minimum age to purchase tobacco products is enacted, Minneapolis will become the eighth municipality in Minnesota to make that change. The other towns are Bloomington, Edina, Falcon Heights, North Mankato, Plymouth, St. Louis Park and Shoreview.
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