Starting Monday, July 1 you must be at least 21 years old to buy Tobacco products in Illinois.

Governor J.B. Pritzker signed the bill signed earlier this year in April.

The American Heart Association says they support the law and officials say it keeps younger people from starting a habit that is tough to quit.

The total economic costs of smoking are more than $300 billion per year including nearly $170 billion in

direct medical care for adults and $156 billion in lost productivity due to premature death and exposure

to second hand smoke, according to the American Heart Association.

Adams County Health Department officials say they eventually hope to see deaths decrease over time in Illinois.

“It’s really going to reduce our youth’s access to these products and that’s a pretty big deal considering tobacco is the leading cause of premature death in the United States, it’s the most preventable disease out there,” health Educator Katie McConnell said.

People who spoke with WGEM News had mixed reactions about the change.

“You should have your right, if you wanna smoke when you’re 18, you should smoke when you’re 18, smoking should be your own decision” Cheryl Guthrie said.

“I like the law going up to 21 because social pressure, when I was younger at 13 started me smoking, quit 8 years ago and it’s been much healthier on me, I breathe better,” Pat Wheeler said.

To read more from the American Heart Association and why they support the 21 tobacco law click here.