Substitute House Bill No. 7181, also known as Public Act No. 25-166, significantly revises the regulatory framework for tobacco, cannabis, hemp, and related products in Connecticut, with an effective date of July 1, 2025. The bill repeals and replaces existing subsections of section 12-287, requiring sellers of cigarettes and taxed tobacco products to obtain a dealer's license from the Commissioner of Revenue Services, who must now consider public comments on license applications. It introduces a Cannabis Control Division within the Department of Consumer Protection to oversee cannabis and hemp product licensing and enforcement, while also establishing a process for public objections to license applications. The bill further modifies the application process for dealer registration, requiring detailed applicant information and criminal background checks, and increases the nonrefundable application fee for tobacco dealers from $75 to $1,000.

Additionally, the bill enhances regulations for cannabis establishments, particularly focusing on social equity applicants. It mandates that a portion of cannabis licenses be reserved for these applicants and outlines specific eligibility criteria, including compliance with workforce development plans. The legislation also introduces new labeling and packaging requirements for cannabis products, establishes penalties for violations, and allows municipalities to regulate cannabis businesses through zoning. Key amendments include the prohibition of sales to individuals under 21, the requirement for age verification, and the establishment of a working group to study cannabis cultivation in disproportionately impacted areas. Overall, the bill aims to improve regulatory oversight, enhance public health and safety, and promote social equity within the cannabis industry.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 12-285c
GL Joint Favorable: 12-285c
File No. 632: 12-285c
JUD Joint Favorable Substitute:
File No. 835:
APP Joint Favorable:
Public Act No. 25-166: 12-287a, 53-344b