Feds Increase Minimum Age Policy For Smokers In Michigan

Well, folks, the FDA is on a mission to make sure that cigarettes and tobacco don't get into the hands of Michigan youth. Specifically, those under 21, which is the legal smoking and drinking age for Michigan and the rest of the country as of December 20, 2019.

RELATED: Adulting in Michigan: 39 Things You Can Do When You Turn 18

However, if you are a smoker who looks like you are under the age of 30, have your ID handy because the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) wants every retailer in the Mitten State and around the country to get card-happy.

FDA's New Tobacco Rules: Carding Customers and Crushing Vending Machines

Along with the minimum age update for tobacco users, the FDA also put the nix on another source of your nicotine fix, the vending machines. Though I haven't seen one of these in Michigan outside of an Eagles or VFW Hall, they have been legal in private clubs and establishments that don't allow anyone under the age of 18.

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Well, the FDA has officially declared war on cigarette vending machines inside businesses that cater to anyone under the age of 21.

All of this ties back to that 2019 law, which already prohibited selling tobacco to anyone under 21. But apparently, that wasn't quite enough. Now, we've got more rules, more ID checks, and fewer vending machines, all in the name of saving Michigan's youth.

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The FDA's message is clear: they're watching retailers, and if these rules are violated, they will face stiff penalties, fines, and even having the products pulled from their locations.

Of course, this begs the question: What can 18-year-olds do in Michigan? Read on for more.