Politics & Government

Somerville Preparing For Nicotine-free Future

The city approved new laws that would gradually phase out nicotine.

SOMERVILLE, MA — The city announced its intentions to implement its new “nicotine-free” public health regulations soon.

The Board of Health voted unanimously in March to join the more than 10 municipalities that have adopted the laws. According to the city, everyone born after Jan. 1, 2005, will be permanently ineligible to purchase tobacco and nicotine products even after they turn 21 years of age.

In addition, the city announced that nicotine pouches can only be sold in adult-only retail stores.
“The Nicotine-Free Generation policy isn’t about taking away rights, it’s about giving young people the freedom to grow up without the grip of nicotine,” Somerville Positive Forces member Bhavika Kalia said. “It’s about bold action today to protect the well-being of those who will lead our communities tomorrow.”

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The Board of Health emphasized that all retailers must familiarize themselves with the new regulations.

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