Legislation to Prevent Youth Smoking
On Friday I testified before the Public Health Committee in support of HB 5384, which would raise the legal age for purchase and use of tobacco products from 18 to 21. According to the Surgeon General, 80% of youth smokers will become adult smokers. Many youth smokers transition from periodic to regular use between the ages of 18 and 21.
This measure will save lives and provide healthcare cost savings in the long term. I hope CT will join CA, HI, New York City, Boston, Chicago and over 200 localities in raising the age of tobacco purchase and use. You can learn more about the legislation in this article from WNPR.