WORLD-FIRST legislation that would make it illegal for Tasmanians born after the year 2000 to buy tobacco has been tabled in the upper house. Windemere MLC Ivan Dean formally introduced the controversial Private Members Bill before the house this morning. Under the proposed laws, retailers and individuals would be sanctioned for selling tobacco to anyone born post-2000, even after they turn 18. Mr Dean has drafted the laws in the hope of creating a ''smoke-free generation'' of Tasmanians. The legislation has already captured international attention and divided some in the community. Health groups have applauded the move while others, including tobacco giants, have slammed it. Tasmanians will be given months to mull over the mooted legislation, with the bill not to be debated until at least March.
