The proposed bill updates current statutes regarding the legal age for purchasing and possessing tobacco products. Under current law, individuals aged 18 and older can buy and possess tobacco products, but the bill raises the minimum legal age to 21 years. It also specifies that individuals who are at least 18 years old and currently serving in the National Guard or U.S. Armed Forces may possess tobacco products under certain conditions, including holding a valid military ID and adhering to military regulations. The bill deletes references to "minors" and replaces them with "persons under twenty-one years of age" to reflect this change.

Additionally, the bill makes technical amendments to existing definitions and penalties related to tobacco use. It clarifies that selling or providing tobacco products to individuals under 21 is a petty offense, and it adjusts the fines associated with violations. The bill also includes provisions that allow for the possession of tobacco products by military personnel aged 18 and older, while ensuring that those who no longer serve or are under 18 are not included in this exemption. Overall, the bill aligns state law with federal regulations regarding tobacco sales and usage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-1655
Senate Engrossed Version: 15-1655
House Engrossed Version: 13-3622, 36-798.01, 36-798.02, 13-802
Chaptered Version: 13-3622, 36-798.01, 36-798.02, 36-798.07, 13-802