Texas Legislature Passes New Statewide Age Restriction

Today, Texas joins 14 other states in adopting tobacco 21 legislation. The Senate concurred with House amendments to Senate Bill 21 that expand the military exemption to include all military personnel with military identification. The bill also preempts local jurisdictions from increasing age requirements. Governor Abbott has offered support for the legislation. If signed by the Governor, S.B. 21 will go into effect September 1, 2019. The restrictions will not apply to individuals born on or before August 31, 2001.