Tobacco Age in Minnesota: A Guide for Retailers

In Minnesota, the tobacco age has been raised to 21. This means that it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to purchase, possess, or use tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, e-cigarettes, and chewing tobacco.

This law was passed in 2019 in an effort to reduce youth tobacco use. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death in the United States. Each year, more than 480,000 people die from tobacco-related illnesses.

Tobacco use among young people is a particular concern. The CDC reports that about 1 in 5 high school students use tobacco products. This number has been increasing in recent years, particularly among e-cigarette use.

The tobacco age of 21 law is an important step towards reducing youth tobacco use. By making it more difficult for young people to obtain tobacco products, we can help to protect their health and prevent them from becoming addicted to nicotine.

Here are some tips for retailers on how to comply with the tobacco age of 21 law:

• Check the ID of anyone who appears to be under the age of 21.
• Do not sell tobacco products to anyone who is under the age of 21.
• Post signs in your store that state the tobacco age of 21.
• Educate your employees about the tobacco age of 21 law.

By following these tips, you can help to reduce youth tobacco use and protect the health of your community.

Success Stories

• In New York City, the tobacco age was raised to 21 in 2014. After the law was implemented, there was a 27% decrease in tobacco use among high school students.
• In Hawaii, the tobacco age was raised to 21 in 2016. After the law was implemented, there was a 16% decrease in tobacco use among high school students.
• In Massachusetts, the tobacco age was raised to 21 in 2018. After the law was implemented, there was a 14% decrease in tobacco use among high school students.

FAQs About Tobacco Age in Minnesota

• What is the tobacco age in Minnesota?
  • The tobacco age in Minnesota is 21.
• Why was the tobacco age raised to 21 in Minnesota?
  • The tobacco age was raised to 21 in Minnesota in an effort to reduce youth tobacco use.
• What are the penalties for violating the tobacco age of 21 law in Minnesota?
  • The penalties for violating the tobacco age of 21 law in Minnesota include fines and imprisonment.
• How can I report a violation of the tobacco age of 21 law in Minnesota?
  • You can report a violation of the tobacco age of 21 law in Minnesota to the Minnesota Department of Health.