Massachusetts Towns Consider Generational Nicotine Ban

Multiple Massachusetts towns, including Northampton, Lexington, and Medford, are considering generational bans on the sale of nicotine products, following Brookline's precedent from 2021. These proposed ordinances, which prohibit sales to anyone born after January 1, 2004, aim to create a nicotine-free generation by gradually reducing the number of smokers. The measures have seen pushback from retailers who argue it infringes on personal freedoms and harms businesses. Brookline's law was upheld by the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court, which has emboldened other towns to pursue similar policies. Discussions and meetings are ongoing in these municipalities to address concerns and gather more information before making final decisions.