Substitute House Bill No. 7275 seeks to enhance the regulation of the sale and distribution of cigarettes, tobacco products, electronic nicotine delivery systems, and vapor products in Connecticut. Key changes include a revised definition of "cigarette" to encompass any nicotine-containing product intended to be burned or heated, and the introduction of stringent shipping and transportation regulations that require licensed distributors or dealers for such activities. The bill establishes penalties for violations, classifying them as misdemeanors or felonies based on the number of offenses, and allows the Commissioner of Revenue Services to impose civil penalties for each shipment that violates these regulations. Additionally, it designates violations as unfair trade practices, enabling the Commissioner of Consumer Protection to take legal action.

The bill also introduces significant amendments to age verification processes for the sale of electronic nicotine delivery systems and vapor products. It mandates that sellers request valid identification and perform a transaction scan to confirm the purchaser's age, with increased fines for selling to individuals under 21. The maximum fine for such violations is raised to $1,000, and the bill allows for the suspension or revocation of dealer registrations for non-compliance. Furthermore, it repeals existing language in Section 53-344b, replacing it with updated definitions and requirements, including the acceptance of passports as valid identification. Overall, the bill aims to tighten regulations surrounding tobacco and e-cigarette sales to protect public health, particularly among minors, while also enhancing consumer protection measures.

Statutes affected:
Raised Bill: 12-285c, 53-344b
FIN Joint Favorable Substitute: 12-285c, 53-344b
File No. 896: 12-285c, 53-344b