Governor Larry Hogan signed House Bill 1169, increasing the State’s legal tobacco age beginning October 1, 2019. The legislation makes the following changes:
- Increases the minimum age for an individual to purchase or be sold tobacco products to 21.
- Retailers must post signage that is clearly visible to the consumer that states: “NO PERSON UNDER THE AGE OF 21 MAY BE SOLD TOBACCO PRODUCTS WITHOUT MILITARY IDENTIFICATION”. The sign must be written in letters at least one-half inch high.
- The age restriction does not apply to active duty military personnel of at least 18 years of age who present valid military identification.
The measure passed the Senate and House by vote margins of 32-13 and 101-35, respectfully.