Governor was right to veto bill raising age to buy cigarettes to 21 here’s why. First, I also opposed this bill and questioned the supporters of this legislation at the time what they’re real intent was. Here is what I mean.
Yes the legislation raise the age to purchase cigarettes to 21, which I’m not opposed to. But here’s the problem with the bill. The legislation stated it would no longer be illegal for any minor to possess or smoke cigarettes. Currently if a minor is caught smoking, their cigarettes are taken, there’s a small fine or community service, and more importantly parents are contacted.
Under this legislation any minor, regardless of age, can possess cigarettes and smoke in public, yes even in front of School officials or police and nothing could be done. Children no longer will have a fear of being caught smoking. For those 18-21 they will run up to Beloit and by them.
You have to wonder why the supporters of this bill were so insistent on making it legal for children to possess and smoke cigarettes. It sure seems like they’re encouraging smoking not discouraging.
