Boston Mayor Marty Walsh announced Wednesday proposed changes to the city’s tobacco regulations that would raise the city’s cigarette-buying age from 18 to 21.

The proposed changes affect all tobacco and nicotine products, including e-cigarettes, according to a release from Walsh’s office.

“It is our responsibility to do what we can to guide our young people and create a healthier future for all Bostonians’’ Walsh said in a statement. “We know the consequences of tobacco use are real and can be devastating. These proposed changes send a strong message that Boston takes the issue of preventing tobacco addiction seriously, and I hope that message is heard throughout Boston and across the entire country.’’


The board of health is expected to vote on the changes at a December 17 meeting. If approved by the board, the changes would take effect 60 days later.

The city will hold a public hearing on December 3 to discuss the changes, according to the release.

In addition to raising the buying age, the changes would increase the age of admission to adult-only retail tabacco stores and smoking bars to 21, and only allow the sale of flavored tobacco products at these establishments.