This bill amends New Jersey's existing law to prohibit the sale of flavored cigarettes, non-premium cigars, and oral nicotine pouches, extending the current ban on flavored cigarettes to include menthol and clove varieties. The legislation specifies that retailers, rather than individuals, are responsible for compliance, and it outlines that no retailer may sell or distribute these products if they contain any natural or artificial constituents that impart a characterizing flavor other than tobacco. The bill clarifies that a product cannot be deemed to have a characterizing flavor based solely on the use of additives or flavorings.

The bill also establishes penalties for violations, with civil fines set at $250 for the first offense, $500 for the second, and $1,000 for subsequent violations. Additionally, it allows for the suspension or revocation of a retailer's tobacco license after a second or subsequent violation, following a municipal hearing. The penalties and enforcement mechanisms are designed to ensure compliance with the new restrictions on flavored tobacco products, thereby aiming to reduce youth access to these items. The act will take effect 60 days after its enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2A:170-51.6