SYRACUSE, N.Y. -- Residents will now have to be 21 years or older to buy tobacco products in Onondaga County.

The county legislature passed a bill that raised the age to purchase cigarettes, cigars, tobacco, and e-cigs.

Supporters of the law say it will protect young people from the harmful effects of smoking.

The Department of Health cited a study that shows raising the legal age to 21 decreases tobacco-related illnesses and deaths.

Lawmakers say it was a long process to raise the age.

The law takes effect January 1.