Walgreens is Raising The Required Age to Buy Tobacco

The age to buy tobacco in Illinois is currently 18. Earlier this year Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker signed legislation that raises the legal age for purchasing cigarettes, e-cigarettes and other tobacco products from 18 to 21. The first big brand to follow suit? Walgreens.

The drug store chain won't sell tobacco to anyone under the age of 21 starting in September. Walgreens is the top violator among pharmacies that sell tobacco products according to the FDA.

WQAD details -

The FDA put Walgreens “on notice” in February, accusing the pharmacy of violating rules that prohibit selling tobacco products to underage buyers. Illinois is among 12 states where you must be 21 to purchase tobacco. Last year Walgreens began requiring an ID from tobacco buyers regardless of age, and has made tobacco products less visible in their stores.

This is definitely a step in the right direction for Walgreens! After the law officially changes to 21+ other stores and businesses will do the same.

H/T WQAD