Effective June 9, 2016, under California's tobacco laws, the minimum age to purchase tobacco products was raised from 18 to 21 and e-cigarettes were added to the current definition of tobacco products. As part of the rules, e-cigarettes, e-liquids, in addition to vaping devices and accessories, are not permitted to be sold in self-service displays. "Today marks a significant moment in California history as new tobacco control laws go into effect statewide. This is the first time the Golden State has raised the age of sale for tobacco since the law first took effect 144 years ago," said Dr. Karen Smith, California Department of Public Health director and state health officer, on June 9, 2016. "Our focus is on reaching more than 34,000 retailers with tobacco licenses and vape shops to provide them the information and resources needed to comply with the new tobacco 21 law." The California Department of Public Health, Food and Drug Branch is charged with enforcing the Stop Tobacco Access to Kids Enforcement Act, and conducts ongoing illegal sales enforcement operations. California retailers caught selling tobacco products to minors during these enforcement operations are subject to fines up to $6,000.
