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Leon County Commissioners take on vaping age regulations

Posted at 6:24 AM, Dec 10, 2019
and last updated 2019-12-10 06:24:04-05

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — Leon County Commissioners could vote on Tuesday, to support statewide proposed regulations, that would make it illegal to get vaping or tobacco products if you're under 21, instead of the current age of 18.

The legal age to purchase tobacco and vaping products could increase if Florida Lawmakers have their way.

Many say its because of the amount of young people vaping.

"We're seeing kids having trouble in school because of this. We're also seeing kids with lung problems," said Pediatrician Dr. Cathy White.

A bill passed in the Florida Senate back in April, raises the age to purchase products legally from 18 to 21. The bill did not pass in the House.

The Leon County Commission has drafted a resolution, in support of Florida Legislation to prohibit selling to those below 21.

Vape Haven in Tallahassee stated "Nobody in our industry supports minors' access to tobacco or vaping products. Vape Haven has and will continue to have stringent age verification measures in place to mitigate these risks."

Tampa Vape shop owner says upping the age may not make a difference.

"Kids will get their hands on it no matter what. so I really honestly think with the age of 21 it won't stop things in a sense but it will curb it a little bit," said Sean Allen, Vape Unlimited owner.

If commissioners approve the resolution Tuesday, it will be sent to the Florida Speaker of the House and Senate President.

Florida Department of Health reported the state's first death from a vaping related illness, in September.

A bill to raise the age for purchasing tobacco and vaping products will go before the Florida House in January.