New York State Assemblywoman Amy Paulin (D-88) has introduced a Generational Tobacco Ban bill (A11509). Under this proposed legislation, the sale of tobacco and nicotine products would be prohibited to anyone born after December 31, 2007. Generational Tobacco bans permanently prohibit future generations from purchasing tobacco and nicotine products throughout their lives.
In terms of the products this bill could apply to, it includes premium handmade cigars, cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, electronic nicotine delivery systems, and other nicotine-containing products. It also extends to smoking accessories and related paraphernalia.
Cigar Rights of America (CRA) has said the likelihood of the bill passing in 2026 is slim. The bill was introduced very late in the 2026 legislative cycle and, notably, there was no companion Senate bill. However, the CRA has informed Cigar Coop that this proposal remains a serious threat. New York State has consistently been at the forefront of anti-tobacco legislation, and there is a strong possibility that this bill could be reintroduced in the 2027 legislative session. Additionally, it could be incorporated into a larger legislative initiative.
Earlier this year, the United Kingdom enacted a generational tobacco ban into law, while policymakers in Canada and several other jurisdictions have begun evaluating similar approaches. While some have been introduced in local municipalities, none have been introduced at the state level.
The CRA has issued a grassroots alert, as has the Premium Cigar Association (PCA).
