The City of Akron voted Monday night to raise the age limit for buying tobacco products from 18 years old to 21 years old—joining nine other cities across Ohio.
Five council members votes yes, three voted no, and two other members did not cast votes.
Those who voted against the law said the Tobacco 21 movement is confusing, and it runs counter to the rights and responsibilities that people expect to have as legal adults.
The movement aims to raise the age limit across the country. In Ohio, cities such as Dublin and Cleveland have adopted the Tobacco 21 ordinance.
Akron's Mayor Dan Horrigan said the law is about protecting the future of young people by keeping cigarettes and other tobacco products out of the hands of high school students.
The law also includes the sale of e-cigarettes, vaping oils and associated paraphernalia.
