Substitute House Bill No. 5228 seeks to enhance the regulation of electronic nicotine delivery systems and vapor product dealers in Connecticut by introducing new definitions and requirements for businesses involved in the sale of these products. Key insertions include definitions for "cannabis," "dealer registration," "manufacturer registration," and "vapor product," which clarify the law's scope. The bill mandates that no person may sell or possess these products with intent to sell unless they are affiliated with a business entity holding a dealer registration from the Commissioner of Consumer Protection. It also requires that dealer registrations be prominently displayed at the business location and that signs inform customers that cannabis cannot be sold there. Additionally, the bill imposes age verification requirements for establishments with significant tobacco-related revenue, ensuring individuals under twenty-one are prohibited from entering.

The legislation further amends the dealer registration process, reducing the financial interest threshold for ownership from ten percent to five percent and requiring third-party criminal background checks for owners. It establishes new revenue and space limitations for businesses, mandating that no more than fifty percent of annual gross revenue can come from tobacco-related products and that no more than twenty-five percent of the sales floor area can be dedicated to these products. The bill also introduces civil penalties of up to $5,000 for violations and allows the Department of Consumer Protection to deny registrations based on criminal history or compliance issues. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026, and includes provisions for the renewal and suspension of dealer registrations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining accurate records and compliance with regulations.