A bill raising the legal age to buy tobacco products to 21 failed in the Illinois House on Tuesday. Supporters say this will lower the number of people who pick up the habit and end up with smoking-related illnesses. But, opponents, like State Representative Jeanne Ives says 18 year olds are mature enough to make their own decisions. She also points out this bill only applies to buying cigarettes.
The bill could come up for a vote again if there appears to be enough support the second time around.