NYC Proposes Raising Age for Cigarette Purchases New York City Council Speaker Christine Quinn is proposing raising the minimum age for tobacco purchases from 18 to 21. Quinn announced the proposed legislation on Monday and was joined by Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley, other council members and health advocates. Texas recently attempted to pass legislation changing the age from 18 to 21 but it failed. Several states have a 19 age limit for the purchase of cigarettes. The Bloomberg administration recently unveiled a plan to keep cigarettes out of sight in stores until an adult customer asks for a pack. New York City has had a ban on smoking in bars, restaurants and other indoor public spaces for 10 years.