House Bill 6730 (sHB6730 File No. 406) aims to amend the current law regarding the Tobacco and Health Trust Fund, which is managed by the Department of Public Health. The bill introduces changes that expand the scope of the trust fund to include the reduction of all tobacco and nicotine product use, such as combustible, noncombustible, electronic, and synthetic products. It emphasizes the use of evidence-based practices for state and community interventions, communication, cessation programs, surveillance, and evaluation. The bill also allows the trust fund to receive financial support from various sources, including public and private transfers, gifts, grants, and donations.

The bill outlines the administrative structure of the trust fund, detailing the appointment of a board of trustees, their terms, and the process for filling vacancies. It requires the board to prioritize comprehensive tobacco and nicotine control programs that focus on preventing youth initiation, promoting cessation, reducing secondhand smoke and aerosol exposure, and addressing disparities. The board is also tasked with providing a biennial report to the General Assembly, including measurable outcomes and evaluation criteria for funded programs. The bill specifies that there will be no fiscal impact on the state or municipalities, and the proposed changes are set to take effect on July 1, 2023.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 4-28f
PH Joint Favorable Substitute: 4-28f
File No. 406: 4-28f