35th Legislature Passes Bill to Halt Youth Tobacco Consumption

The 35th Legislature of the Virgin Islands moved forward with legislation aimed at reducing tobacco consumption among youth, approving a bill that raises the legal age for purchasing tobacco products from 18 to 21.

The measure, which has sparked considerable debate, is part of a broader effort to address public health concerns and curb the rising rates of youth smoking and vaping across the territory. Sen. Kenneth Gittens, who introduced the bill, emphasized that the legislation is crucial for protecting the health of young people in the Virgin Islands. “Raising the legal age to 21 aligns with national trends and reflects our commitment to safeguarding the well-being of our youth,” Gittens stated. “We know that the earlier someone starts smoking, the harder it is to quit and the more severe the health consequences can be. This law is about giving our young people a better chance at a healthier future.”

The legislation comes at a time when many jurisdictions across the United States have been raising the minimum age to purchase tobacco products following the passage of the federal Tobacco 21 law in 2019. Advocates for the bill argue that increasing the legal age will reduce the number of young adults who become lifelong smokers. According to studies cited during the legislative session, nearly 90 percent of smokers begin using tobacco before the age of 21, making adolescence a critical period for preventing addiction.