Englewood to Raise Minimum Age for Purchasing Tobacco to 21

Englewood is now the first municipality in the state to have raised the minimum age for buying tobacco to 21.

The restriction extends to the sales of tobacco and “nicotine delivery” products which include cigarettes, cigars and e-cigarettes.

City Council President Lynne Algrant believes that the longer kids can be kept away from such products, the better.

Englewood joins the ranks of many municipalities and counties across the United States that are trying to prohibit young people from smoking.

The state Legislature is considering a similar measure if a bill banning the sale of tobacco products and electronic smoking devices is adopted. The Senate approved the bill in June and the Assembly version of the bill has yet to be voted on. If the bill is passed, New Jersey would become the first state to raise the minimum age for buying tobacco to 21.

For Englewood retailers found in violation of the ordinance, a first offense fine of up to $250 will be assessed. For any subsequent offenses, retailers will risk a fine of up to $1,000, 90 days in jail and suspension of their retail-food licenses.

Last week, the City Council banned smoking in all public buildings and on public property, including parks and recreation areas.

The new law takes effect next week.

Photo Credit: NJ.com