San Antonio passes new tobacco law for retailers

San Antonio became the first city in Texas to pass a law prohibiting merchants in the city limits from selling tobacco products to anyone under 21 years old.

Mysanantonio.com reported that the city council approved the new law by a 9 to 2 vote on Thursday.

The law only targets merchants who sell tobacco products to 18-, 19- or 20-year-olds and it doesn’t pertain to adults of those ages. Violators of the new rules could face up to $500 in fines.

The two council members who voted against the law questioned if it would financially harm smaller businesses.

Council heard from more than 30 citizens who expressed their support for the new law. Supporters said public health protection was the main reason for supporting the new ordinance.

San Antonio joined more than 280 cities in other states that have approved similar measures.