Tempe’s proposed tobacco ordinance was approved at Tempe City Council’s Oct. 26 meeting, with Council Member Joel Navarro absent. 

In a 6:0 vote, council passed the proposed ordinance for final adoption, changing Tempe’s legal purchasing age for tobacco products to 21 and instating a new tobacco licensing program for retailers. 

Residents and other community members came to the final hearing to express their thoughts about the ordinance, with many in support despite some business concerns and others saying that the city could do more to curb youth consumption. 

Following public comment, the mayor and council members spoke of their support for the ordinance and the city’s efforts to manage underage tobacco and nicotine usage. Council Member Doreen Garlid noted that Council Member Navarro, who wasn’t present at the meeting, was very supportive of the changes.

“I'm comfortable with us moving forward with what we have right now,” Garlid said.