North Jersey town raises age for buying nicotine products

RUTHERFORD, N.J. (AP) — Rutherford has become the ninth New Jersey town to raise the age for purchasing "nicotine-delivery" products.

The council voted unanimously on Monday to allow only those who are 21 or older to buy tobacco and electronic cigarettes.

The Record newspaper reports New Jersey Gasoline Convenience Store And Automotive Association representative Eric Blomgren told officials the ordinance would hurt Rutherford merchants who sell tobacco products. Blomgren says a 19- or 20-year-old adult who wants to buy a cigar or other tobacco product can easily drive to Clifton or Nutley or Secaucus.

Under the ordinance, Rutherford merchants who sell tobacco products to anyone under 21 face a minimum fine of $250 for the first violation.

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