Maryland legislators target tobacco age

Members from the legislative black caucus of Maryland are expected to target the state’s smoking age when they return to Annapolis in August.

Delegate Dereck Davis is leading the charge to change the legal smoking age from 18 to 21.

Local leaders have continued to point out the health risks of smoking, especially the toll it takes on the African American community.

A total of six other states have already banned cigarettes sales to people younger than 21.

A number of other delegates have voiced support for the bill — saying its passage is over due.

“I am someone who has a lot of concerns about smoking, especially young people smoking and beginning that habit early so it is something that I am inclined to support and it is a legislative priority of the black caucus,” said Delegate Jheanelle Wilkins.

The proposal arrives after the Food and Drug Administration said they will begin restricting the sale of flavored e-cigarettes to kids and eventually ban menthol cigarettes.