Olathe raises minimum purchase age of tobacco products to 21

Olathe has become the first city in Johnson County to raise the purchase age of tobacco products from 18 to 21.

At its meeting Tuesday evening, the City Council voted 6-1 to change the city’s ordinance, effective Saturday.

Many council members expressed support for the amendment, saying they believe it will create a healthier community.

“Many of you don’t know I’m a nurse practitioner,” said Councilwoman Marge Vogt. “I’ve never had a patient tell me they’re glad they smoke. The truth is, they’re struggling. There’s great value in prevention.”

Councilman Jim Randall agreed. He hopes the move will greatly benefit the young people of Olathe.

“Teenage brains are much more susceptible to addiction,” he said.

Councilman John Bacon was the opposing vote.

With the amendment, Olathe follows in the footsteps of the Unified Government of Wyandotte County, plus Kansas City and Independence on the Missouri side.

Jennifer Bhargava, special to The Star

This story was originally published February 2, 2016 at 9:34 PM with the headline "Olathe raises minimum purchase age of tobacco products to 21."