Tobacco Prevention and Control Program

Texas Tobacco Law Change

The Texas Tobacco law, changing the legal age to purchase tobacco products from 18 to 21, will take effect September 1, 2019. If you were born after August 31, 2001, you cannot purchase or possess tobacco products. The complete Senate Bill (SB21) can be found by visiting SB21. For more information, please contact the Texas Comptroller’s office.

The DSHS Tobacco Prevention and Control Branch (TPCB) is determined to reduce the toll of tobacco on the health, safety, and well-being of Texans. Our goals are: 

• To keep young Texans from ever starting tobacco use.
• Supporting enforcement of tobacco laws.
• Helping more Texans to quit smoking and stay smoke-free.
• Eliminating exposure to secondhand smoke.
• Reducing tobacco use among high-risk populations.
• Developing and maintaining statewide capacity to support all of the above.