Illinois prohibits sale of any tobacco, alternative nicotine, and electronic cigarette product to persons under 21 under the Prevention of Tobacco Use by Persons under 21 Act.
Public Act 101-2, effective July 1, 2019, amended 720 ILCS 675 and 720 ILCS 680 to raise the minimum legal sales age for tobacco, alternative nicotine, and electronic cigarette products from 18 to 21. Retailers must verify a government-issued ID for any purchaser appearing under 30. The Smoke Free Illinois Act (410 ILCS 82) bans use of these products in indoor public places and workplaces. Local governments may enact stricter age and licensing rules under home rule but cannot lower the statewide age floor.
Sales to underage buyers are punishable by civil penalties of $200 for a first offense, $400 for a second, and $600 for subsequent violations, plus potential license suspension.
See how Chicago's tobacco age restrictions rules stack up against other locations.
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