CINCINNATI (WKRC) - There is some confusion as new restrictions on tobacco products go into effect in Ohio. Interact for Health is a local organization that does research in our community related to health and wellness. They have supported changing policies to reduce smoking-related deaths in our community and say raising the age from 18 to 21 to buy tobacco products is a good first step in keeping young people from getting hooked. But there is some confusion about what is legal and what is not with this new Tobacco 21 law.
While it is not recommended those under 21 smoke, the law makes it illegal to sell, purchase or give tobacco products to someone not yet 21.
Possessing, using or purchasing is against the law for someone under 21 unless they are with a parent. It's also punishable by up to 20 hours of community service.
Dr. O'dell Owens says they support this law because of research. He says its goal is to stop young kids from smoking.
Health care providers say they would rather focus on getting young people to quit smoking than punishing anyone. They know young people can still buy in neighboring states, such as Kentucky, so Dr. Owens says he hopes those same states will soon follow.
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