Reactions Mixed To Bill That Would Raise Smoking Age

SANTA TERESA, N.M. — Texas lawmakers are considering a bill to raise the legal smoking age by one year to 19. That’s supposed to improve public health, but it also raises other issues.

For cigarette shops like the Cigarette Outlet in Santa Teresa, New Mexico, that means the possibility of a spike in sales.

“With taxes the way they are on tobacco products, an increase will be of help,” said Allen Kirby, the shop’s general manager.

He says the possible change in law making 19 the legal purchasing age for tobacco products in Texas comes at a good time.

The state of New Mexico, he says, has increased their tobacco sales taxes, and the 18-year-olds coming over state lines to buy from him would help offset that cost.

However, not even he agrees with the Texas bill. “The difference between 18- and 19-year-olds consuming tobacco products is ridiculous at best.”

One teen said he understands the purpose of the bill is to promote healthier living, but still thinks it is just not right.

“That makes sense, but when it comes down to it, it’s the person’s choice,” said Alexander Moncrief.

And with that choice, Moncrief says comes a will to find another way to get those cigarettes despite any bill aimed at putting out their light.

“The more you raise the age, more taboo it becomes and the more people will see how they can get it.”

The bill that proposes to raise the age passed a state Senate committee unanimously, but it still has a long way to go before becoming law.