The proposed bill, Substitute Bill No. 6974, amends the disbursement structure of the Tobacco Settlement Fund. It repeals the existing subsection (c) of section 4-28e and introduces new provisions effective July 1, 2025. For the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, the bill mandates that annual disbursements include twelve million dollars to the Tobacco and Health Trust Fund, with the remainder allocated to the General Fund. Notably, for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025, all disbursements will be directed solely to the General Fund.

Starting with the fiscal year ending June 30, 2026, the bill stipulates a significant increase in funding for the Tobacco and Health Trust Fund, raising the allocation to thirty-two million dollars, with any remaining funds again going to the General Fund. The changes reflect a shift in funding priorities and aim to enhance support for health initiatives related to tobacco use while ensuring the General Fund receives necessary financial resources.