Bill to Raise Tobacco Sales to Age 21 Headed to Governor's Desk

SACRAMENTO, CA- Despite strong opposition, California lawmakers have voted to raise the smoking and tobacco age from 18 to 21. SB 151 would restrict all tobacco products, as well as, e-cigarette sales.

Governor Jerry Brown must still sign off on the bill before it becomes law; according to ABC News reports, his spokesperson is not commenting on whether he plans to or not.

Sen. Ed Hernandez (D-West Covina) explained that he introduced the bill in June 2015 because of various health concerns. He believes that by raising the age, fewer teenagers will be able to pick up the habit.

This Senate vote comes just a week after the City of San Francisco voted to raise the tobacco buying age to 21 and would make California the second State to raise the age, following Hawaii.

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