KINGSTON – The Ulster County Legislature will consider a local law this spring that would prohibit the possession, distribution or use of tobacco products by a minor in the county.
The issue was discussed at two sessions of the legislature’s Public Health and Social Services Committee.
Its chairman, Craig Lopez, has one particular concern regarding the proposal.
“One of my biggest concerns was I wanted to make sure that the sheriff’s department was onboard considering they are the ones that are going to be responsible for enforcing or pursing this law,” Lopez said. “I wanted to make sure that resources won’t be diverted for more urgent matters in the county that we are facing with addiction issues.”
The committee voted to bring the proposal to the full legislature this month to set a public hearing date in May.
Other area counties, including Sullivan and Orange, are considering or have adopted “Tobacco 21” laws.
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