Milwaukee lawmakers consider raising tobacco sales age to align with federal law

The Milwaukee Public Safety and Health Committee convened on April 10, 2025, to address critical public health issues surrounding tobacco and vaping regulations. A significant focus of the meeting was the need to align local ordinances with federal laws regarding the sale of tobacco products, particularly the age limit for purchasing these items.

Currently, federal law prohibits the sale of tobacco products to individuals under 21, while Milwaukee's municipal ordinance allows sales to those as young as 18. This discrepancy has raised concerns among lawmakers and health advocates, prompting discussions on potential legislative changes. Alderman Westmoreland emphasized the importance of updating local laws to reflect federal standards, highlighting the health risks posed to young people by tobacco use.

Community members and health organizations presented compelling arguments for raising the local age limit. Jess Brost from the American Lung Association noted that increasing the age of sale could prevent thousands of deaths and reduce healthcare costs significantly. She pointed out that tobacco remains the leading cause of preventable death in the U.S., with substantial financial implications for the state.

The meeting also addressed the rising popularity of flavored tobacco and vaping products, which are particularly appealing to youth. Aliyah Torres, involved in a local vaping prevention program, shared alarming statistics about illegal sales to minors, indicating a troubling trend in accessibility. The appeal of flavored products, designed to attract younger consumers, poses serious health risks, including addiction and long-term cognitive effects.

Additionally, concerns were raised about the proliferation of hookah lounges in Milwaukee, which may undermine existing smoke-free laws. Charlie Leonard from the Tobacco Free Alliance highlighted the loopholes that allow these establishments to operate without age restrictions, potentially exposing young people to harmful substances.

The committee's discussions underscored a collective commitment to protecting public health and ensuring that local regulations effectively address the challenges posed by tobacco and vaping products. As the city considers legislative changes, the emphasis remains on safeguarding the health and well-being of its youth. The next steps will involve further community engagement and potential drafting of new ordinances to align local laws with federal standards.