TUCSON, Ariz. — Pima County is tabling their decision on the tobacco age until next month.
Many people spoke in favor of raising the minimum age at the board of supervisors meeting today, but business owners complained they were not given enough time to weigh in on the subject. They took issue with stiff penalties surrounding the law.
“You'll have multiple jurisdictions with multiple sets of rules,” said Supervisor Ally Miller.
Miller says she would rather the tobacco age be addressed at the federal or state level.
“If someone really wants to get these tobacco products they are going to make the trip to the reservation or one individual will and bring it back to various areas,” said supervisor ally miller.
Supervisors Miller and Christy voted no, but the motion to push the issue until their second meeting in September passed 3 to 2. Other supervisors said it will give stakeholders a chance to weigh in on enforcement and fines.
“I’m hoping they do keep the ordinance, but don't take too much criticism from those big retailers,” said high school student and member of a wellness advocacy group Mikayla Nesbitt.
Tucson City Council also voted to push their decision for another 45 days in order to coincide with the County’s meeting.
