The Quest for Nicotine: A Not-So-Epic Tale (For Californians of a Certain Age)
Ah, nicotine. The siren song of cigarettes (or vapes, or patches, or lozenges... hey, we're not judging!), the fleeting friend that promises a quick pick-me-up. But for those of us residing in the sunshine state, the question looms: at what age can we legally snag this not-so-forbidden fruit?
Well, buckle up, my friends, because the answer is about as exciting as watching paint dry... unless, of course, the paint is a particularly rebellious shade of neon green and it's defying gravity in a mesmerizing way.
California Says: Not Until You're Practically Ancient (Well, 21 Anyway)
Yes, folks, in the land of avocados and endless summer, you gotta be 21 years old to legally purchase anything nicotine-related. Cigarettes, vapes, chewing tobacco (yes, that's still a thing?), even those fancy little lozenges that look suspiciously like candy – all off-limits for youngsters like ourselves (sobs dramatically into a non-existent fedora).
The Plot Thickens (or Thins, Depending on Your Perspective)
Now, there is a tiny loophole (because what law doesn't have one of those?). If you're active duty military and over 18, you can apparently defy the system and puff away (or vape, or whatnot). We're not sure if this is a sign of respect for our troops or just a way to unload all those leftover clove cigarettes from the 90s, but hey, loopholes are loopholes!
But Wait, There's More! (Because Seriously, Who Wants a Short Post?)
Here's the real kicker: This 21-and-over rule hasn't always been a thing. Back in the day (a.k.a. the dark ages of 2016 and before), you could snag a pack of smokes at the ripe old age of 18. Cue the dramatic music as we reminisce about simpler times.
The Moral of the Story?
Look, nicotine's not exactly a health nut's dream. But hey, if you're of legal age in California (which, by the way, is 21 unless you're military), that's your business. Just remember, with great nicotine freedom comes great responsibility. Use it wisely (and maybe consider a stress ball instead... just a suggestion).
