Tobacco 21
On August 9, 2017 Governor Kate Brown signed Senate Bill 754 into law. This law raises the minimum legal sale age for tobacco and inhalant delivery systems (such as e-cigarettes) from 18 to 21 years of age. Raising the sale age of tobacco products protects kids as the earlier kids start to use tobacco, the more at risk they are for tobacco addiction. Enforcement of the law began on January 1, 2018.
Who does the new law impact?
- Tobacco retailers and certified smoke shops may no longer sell tobacco products or inhalant delivery systems to persons under 21 years of age.
- Facilities, including a public or private school, college, community college, university, career school, technical education school, youth correction facility or juvenile detention facility, may not allow persons under 21 years of age to possess tobacco products and inhalant delivery systems while on grounds, in buildings, or when attending sponsored activities.
I work at a tobacco retail store or certified smoke shop. How can I comply with the new law?
- Post required signs to notify customers about the new minimum legal sale age. Contact the Linn County Tobacco Prevention program to receive sign decals at no cost.
- Train employees to comply with the law to ensure they do not sell tobacco products to people under 21
- Provide support for employees who use tobacco to quit
- Talk with your patrons about the law
I work for a facility that is included in the new law. How can I comply?
- Train employees on how to talk to clients and students about the law
- Talk with your clients and students about the law
- As required by law, issue a written policy prohibiting persons under 21 years of age from possessing tobacco products and inhalant delivery systems while on facility grounds, in facility buildings or when attending facility-sponsored activities
- Provide support for employees, clients, and students who use tobacco to quit
I would like more information and resources about the new law. Where can I go?
- Oregon Health Authority's Tobacco Retail: Provides information on the new law and pdf of the required signage
- Contact the Linn County Tobacco Prevention and Education program to request stickers of the required signs and learn more about Tobacco 21