The laws in New York State are always changing and yet there is one arena in which the laws seem to linger. We all know by now that smoking can and does kill. It is one of the most talked about yet seemingly overlooked topics here in New York State.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, we saw the government do things and restrict things we never thought possible all in the name of safety and protection. However, when it comes to smoking and cigarettes, the best the government seem to do is throw a tax at it or adjust the age to purchase them.

In other places, such as the UK, there are laws being changed regarding smoking and the plan seems to be to eventually keep everyone from smoking one generation at a time.

There are reports that people in England born on or after January 1, 2009, will be banned from ever buying cigarettes under plans announced Wednesday by British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. Speaking at the Conservative Party conference, Sunak declared England's smoking age would be raised annually, so a 14-year-old today will never be allowed to buy cigarettes legally.

Australia will closely monitor a UK plan to ban cigarette sales for future generations, as the government progresses plans to prevent young people from picking up a smoking habit.

As much as parents would love to keep their kids from lighting up here in New York State, it is not likely that the laws would ever be that restrictive here. There some who are convinced that the state's take of money is too much to let go of and the tax revenue is too strong.

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