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Illinois Legislation Could Raise Smoking Age From 18 to 21

State Senator Julie Morrison of Deerfield and State Representative Camille Lilly of Oak Park said it will stop teenagers from starting a deadly habit

Illinois Democrats want to raise the legal age for smoking or chewing tobacco from 18 to 21.

State Senator Julie Morrison of Deerfield and State Representative Camille Lilly of Oak Park said it will stop teenagers from starting a deadly habit.

The "Tobacco 21" measure would prohibit consumers younger than 21 from buying tobacco-based products including e-cigarettes and other nicotine products.

Bill Fleischli is the executive vice president of the Illinois Petroleum Marketers Association. It represents gas stations and convenience stores.

Fleischli said the bill is "inconsistent" and that 18-year-olds should be allowed to smoke if they can vote or join the military.

According to Morrison and Lilly, 14 Illinois cities and counties have similar ordinances, including Chicago, Naperville, and Lake County.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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