This bill aims to enhance penalties for the illegal sale of tobacco and vapor products to individuals under the age of 21. It amends existing legislation to clarify that retailers are prohibited from selling any tobacco product, which is broadly defined to include items made from or containing tobacco or nicotine, as well as vapor products and their components. The bill specifies that the penalties for violations will increase significantly: from a minimum of $250 to $750 for the first offense, $500 to $1,500 for the second, and $1,000 to $3,000 for subsequent violations. Additionally, 5% of the penalties collected will be allocated to the Department of Health to support educational initiatives regarding the dangers of vapor products.

Furthermore, the bill introduces measures for enforcement and compliance, allowing the Division of Taxation in the Department of the Treasury to establish a reporting process for retailers and a mechanism for anonymous reporting of violations. It also stipulates that retailers must display a sign at points of sale indicating the penalties for selling tobacco products to minors. The changes are designed to strengthen the enforcement of age restrictions on tobacco sales and to promote public health awareness regarding the risks associated with tobacco and vapor products.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 2A:170-51.4, 54:40A-4.1