Jump to full article: Baltimore (MD) Sun, 2009-10-07
Author: Mary Gail Hare
Intro: The Baltimore County Council has deferred a proposal that would require retailers of tobacco products to ask for proof of age from "anyone who looks to be 26 or younger."
The legislation was written to make it easier for police officers to enforce the county's ban on distribution of tobacco products to those under the age of 18.
"It automatically says a retailer needs to card, and it will help us reduce teenage smoking," said Don Mohler, county spokesman.
But several council members said the regulation put too great an onus on retailers.
"If the buyer is of legal age, is the seller breaking the law by not asking for proof of age?" asked Councilman John Olszewski.
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