Illinois has joined the growing list of states considering an increase in the minimum age to buy tobacco products.

Lawmakers in the Land of Lincoln have given initial approval to a plan that would raise the age from 18 to 21. Last year, Hawaii became the first state to do so and California is considering a similar move. Legislation also is being considered in about a dozen other states.

Backers of the proposal in Illinois say they want to keep young people from developing a dangerous habit at an earlier age.