SPONSOR: Christ
This bill specifies that no political subdivision can deny a qualified applicant for a tobacco products license, an alternative nicotine products license, or a vapor products license, provided that the new license is for the same business or location that had a tobacco products license, an alternative nicotine products license, or a vapor products license within the previous 24 months, as specified in the bill.
Additionally, any new licensee remains eligible for a tobacco products license, an alternative nicotine products license, or a vapor products license, or the renewal thereof, provided that the licensee complies with applicable rules and laws.
The bill changes the minimum age to purchase tobacco products, alternative nicotine products, and vapor products from 18 years of age to 21 years of age.
The Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control within the Department of Public Safety is currently allowed to employ a person 17 years of age, with parental consent, to attempt to purchase tobacco for the purpose of inspection or enforcement of tobacco laws. This bill changes the age range to 16 years of age and under 21 years of age.
This bill is the same as HCS HB 1484 (2024) and similar to HB 1039, HB 517, and SB 522 (all 2023).
Statutes affected: