Join the discussion about Tobacco 21

The Mankato City Council is considering Tobacco 21, which would make it illegal to sell tobacco or nicotine products to people under age 21. Join the discussion and complete an online survey on Sound off Mankato (registration required)--share ideas about what decision should be made on behalf of the city.  

Background
Tobacco 21 is a national campaign aimed at raising the minimum legal age for tobacco and nicotine sales in the United States to 21.

Current state law
Current state law--Minnesota statute 609.685--prohibits the sale of tobacco to people younger than age 18. Doing so is a chargeable offense for a retailer/and or their employee. This statute also prohibits people younger than age 18 to purchase, attempt to purchase or possess tobacco. Mankato's current ordinance (chapter 9, section 9.17) is identical to the state statute.

What happens if Tobacco 21 is enacted in Mankato?

• Raises legal age to 21 to purchase tobacco and nicotine products.
• Makes it illegal for retailers to sell to anyone 20 or younger.
• Does not prevent anyone 18 or older from using and possessing tobacco in Mankato because state law does not prohibit it.
• Does not prevent anyone 18 or older from buying tobacco in most jurisdictions in the state.

Citizen input is important and helpful when making City Council decisions. For questions or more information, please contact staff at 507-387-8775.