YOUTH & COMMERCIAL TOBACCO - YOUTH PURCHASE, USE, OR POSSESSION (PUP)

However, many states and localities have also implemented laws targeting youth behavior epidemic, penalizing individuals for purchasing, related to tobacco and impose penalties for possessing, or using these products is ineffective the purchase, use, or possession (or “PUP”) of and counterproductive, and can undermine tobacco products. [...] While This fact sheet explores the unintended reducing youth access to tobacco products consequences of PUP laws and provides an remains crucial in combating the youth tobacco overview of alternative policies for states and www.publichealthlawcenter.org . [...] Children and adolescents are routinely exposed to tobacco industry advertising.7 The prevalence of tobacco retailers in neighborhoods means that children and teens are more likely to encounter stores selling and displaying tobacco products and advertisements in their daily lives — on their way to school, the park, or playground.8 This constant exposure can lead young people to perceive tobacco pro. [...] Enact laws that focus on results, not punishment The most effective approach for reducing youth tobacco use and preventing initiation is to restrict the availability of tobacco products and imagery in environments frequented by children and young people. [...] Impose minimum price regulations to deter youth access Establishing a minimum price for all tobacco products serves to increase their cost, rendering them less affordable and accessible to teenagers and young adults.40 Adolescents and young people are particularly sensitive to price hikes in tobacco products compared to the general population.