GOP Ohio governor signs bill raising legal smoking age to 21

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine (R) signed into law a new state budget bill Thursday that raises the legal age from 18 to 21 for purchases of cigarettes, cigars, vape pens and other tobacco products.

The new legislation went into effect immediately after DeWine vetoed a grandfather clause that would have exempted people who are between the ages of 18 and 20 before Oct. 1, Cleveland.com reported.

Moments ago, I signed the #OHBudget, which lays the groundwork for a better #Ohio for future generations and makes unprecedented investments in children, families, workers, recovery, education, and more. My team is compiling the final details and will release more info soon. pic.twitter.com/Vkx4ZHzLfl

— Governor Mike DeWine (@GovMikeDeWine) July 18, 2019

The age restriction also applies to tobacco-related items such as rolling papers, filters, blunt wrappers, liquids and other accessories. 

The measure was included as part of a $69 billion budget passed by the Ohio legislature.

While officials estimate that the age change will result in a $20 million state tax loss, the outlet noted that the budget also implements a 10 cent per milliliter tax on vaping products.

Several other states, including Illinois, Virginia and Texas, have implemented similar bans. 

The Hill has reached out to DeWine’s office for comment.