Nevada Assembly advances AB279 to phase out cigarette sales for future generations

A bold new initiative aimed at curbing youth smoking in Nevada is making waves as Assembly Bill 279 proposes a gradual increase in the legal age to purchase cigarettes. Currently set at 21, the bill seeks to raise this age by one year annually, effectively phasing out cigarette sales to anyone born after December 31, 2004. This means that in ten years, the minimum age to buy cigarettes will be 31, creating a generation of young Nevadans who may never legally purchase cigarettes.

Assembly member David Ornatlicker, who introduced the bill, emphasized its preventive nature, stating, "This bill is designed to prevent young Nevadans from ever taking up and becoming addicted to cigarettes." The legislation aims to address the alarming health crisis associated with smoking, which is responsible for significant morbidity and mortality across the nation.

The bill has garnered support from public health advocates, including Chris Bostick, policy director at Action on Smoking and Health. He highlighted the global trend towards tobacco endgame measures, noting that 21 jurisdictions in the U.S. have already enacted similar laws. Bostick pointed out the historical context, stating, "Cigarettes are the deadliest artifact in the history of human civilization," and stressed the need for urgent action to prevent future generations from the harms of smoking.

Jennifer Pearson, an associate professor at the University of Nevada, Reno, reinforced the bill's focus on cigarettes as the most harmful nicotine product. She noted that while e-cigarettes and other nicotine alternatives will remain available, the targeted restriction on cigarette sales reflects a common practice of limiting access to the most dangerous products.

The financial implications of smoking were also discussed, with Pearson revealing that smoking costs Nevada approximately $1.25 billion annually in healthcare expenses. She argued that the state should not rely on tax revenue from a product that harms its citizens, stating, "Cigarette smoking costs the state more money than it brings in."

As the committee prepares to deliberate on this significant legislation, the potential impact of AB279 could reshape the landscape of tobacco use in Nevada, paving the way for a healthier future for its youth.