At 18, we’re legally recognized as adults — we can vote, join the military, sign contracts, and live independently. Yet, the law currently bars us from purchasing tobacco until 21. This creates an inconsistency where young adults are treated as fully responsible in every other aspect of life, but not trusted to make their own choice about tobacco. Restoring the legal tobacco purchasing age to 18 would respect adult autonomy, reduce unnecessary criminal penalties for young adults, and allow education — rather than restriction — to guide informed choices about tobacco use.
Posted by Jewell1977_