California lawmakers are proposing a bold new bill aimed at curbing tobacco use. The bill would ban the sale of tobacco products to any resident born on or after January 1, 2007. If the bill is passed, it would essentially phase out tobacco use for an entire generation of Californians. Existing smokers would still be allowed to purchase tobacco products, but anyone under the age of 16 would be permanently barred from doing so.
The bill, known as Assembly Bill 935, would target retailers instead of tobacco consumers. Retailers who violate the proposed law would face financial penalties and license suspensions. The bill is likely to be met with opposition from Big Tobacco, which has historically fought against similar legislation.
While the tobacco industry may challenge the bill, California lawmakers have a strong track record of passing anti-tobacco laws. In 2010, the state passed Proposition 31, which prohibits the sale of most flavored tobacco products, including menthol cigarettes.
If passed, Assembly Bill 935 would be one of the most aggressive anti-tobacco laws in the country. The bill is part of a broader push to reduce tobacco use in California, which has one of the lowest smoking rates in the US Supporters of the bill argue that it will help prevent teenagers from becoming addicted to tobacco products and reduce the incidence of smoking-related illnesses in future generations.
Opponents of the bill argue that it could lead to increased black market activity and that it unfairly targets retailers. Some also worry that the bill could be difficult to enforce, particularly if it is challenged in court.
Assembly Bill 935 is currently under review in the California legislature. If it is passed, it would take effect on January 1, 2024.