Slaughter Backs Measure to Curb Teen Smoking

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – To help combat teen smoking and promote public health, state Rep. Justin Slaughter, D-Chicago, supported legislation that would raise the legal age to buy tobacco products from 18 to 21.

“With the popularity of e-cigarettes on the rise, teens and young adults are getting addicted to using tobacco products at an alarming rate,” said Slaughter. “These products are often bought legally by older friends or family members and given to underage teens. I am confident that raising the age to purchase tobacco products will keep our communities healthier and reduce the opportunities for teens and young adults to use these harmful products and become addicted.”

The Slaughter-backed House Bill 345 passed the in the House with bipartisan support. The legislation raises the legal age to buy tobacco products including cigarettes, chewing tobacco, and e-cigarettes from 18 to 21. Slaughter supported a similar measure last year, but the bill was ultimately vetoed by former Gov. Bruce Rauner.

“I want to thank Rep. Slaughter for putting the health and well-being of young people first,” said Matt Maloney, director of health policy for Respiratory Health Association. “There are seven states that have Tobacco 21 laws in place, and Illinois is one step closer to becoming the eighth. It is my hope that the Illinois Senate will also pass this measure with vast bipartisan support.”

For more information, please contact Slaughter’s constituent service office at 773-445-9700 or Justin@RepSlaughter.com.