House Bill No. by Representative Wright seeks to amend Louisiana's tobacco tax laws by maintaining the current excise tax rate of $1.08 per pack of cigarettes while introducing a reduced tax rate for certain modified risk tobacco products. The bill specifically amends R.S. 47:841(B) and 842, and enacts R.S. 47:841(H), allowing for a 60% tax reduction for modified risk tobacco products that receive a risk modification order from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and a 25% reduction for those with an exposure modification order. This aims to align the tax structure with public health goals by incentivizing the use of less harmful tobacco products.

Additionally, the bill updates definitions related to tobacco products, expanding the definition of "cigarette" to include any roll for heating made wholly or partially of tobacco, and introducing terms such as "promotional incentives" and "manufacturer's net invoiced price." These changes are designed to clarify the tax structure and ensure it is applicable to a variety of tobacco products in light of evolving consumption patterns. The provisions will take effect for taxable periods beginning on or after July 1, 2025, and will become effective upon the governor's signature or after the expiration of the time for bills to become law without signature.

Statutes affected:
HB668 Original: 47:841(B)