This bill mandates inspections of retail cigarette and vapor product dealers in New Jersey, amending existing laws to enhance enforcement measures. It removes the previous requirement that only certain officials could issue summonses for violations and instead allows the Attorney General or the Commissioner of Health, along with county or municipal law enforcement agencies, to conduct inspections at least twice a year. Additionally, follow-up inspections are required within three months of any violation. The bill also stipulates that any cigarettes or vapor products deemed in violation may be classified as prima facie contraband and subject to seizure and destruction.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a structured penalty system for violations, with increasing fines for repeat offenses. The penalties collected will be directed to the municipality's treasury for general use. These amendments aim to strengthen the regulation of flavored tobacco and vapor products, ensuring compliance and protecting public health.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2A:170-51.6, 2A:170-51.12