AMHERST, Mass. (WWLP) – The Amherst Board of Health plans to hold a public hearing on proposed tobacco regulations next week.
This hearing, set for next Thursday, October 30, is intended to share information regarding the proposed ‘Nicotine-Free Generation’ provision. Nicotine products can currently only be sold to individuals aged 21 or older. However, this proposal would prohibit the sale of nicotine products to anyone born on or after January 1, 2005.
This provision, which has been implemented in 18 communities in Massachusetts, focuses on reducing the use of nicotine products among youth, addressing addiction at a young age by phasing out nicotine sales over generations.
Opponents of this proposal say that the ban is overly restrictive and could lead to an increase in illegal activity, as individuals prohibited from purchasing these products may seek them in other communities or off the streets.
The hearing will begin at 5 p.m. in Room 101 of the Bangs Community Center in Amherst. Public comments will be open, but no vote will be taken. The Amherst Board of Health will consider the proposed provision for adoption at its next scheduled meeting on November 5.
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Beck Wehner
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