SB 15 Summary

• Prohibits persons under 19 years of age from knowingly possessing cigarettes, cigars, tobacco, electronic smoking products, or products containing nicotine; violation is a misdemeanor.

• Creates affirmative defense for minors possessing FDA-approved tobacco cessation or harm reduction products if prescribed by a health care professional, given by parent/guardian, provided by state-approved program, or provided by pharmacist to persons 18 or older.

• Prohibits selling or giving electronic smoking products or nicotine-containing products to minors; establishes vending machine restrictions and penalties of $300 minimum fine for first offense, with increased penalties and license suspension for repeat violations.

• Requires business license endorsements to sell electronic smoking products and nicotine products at retail locations; establishes suspension periods and civil penalties ranging from $500 to $10,000 depending on violation history.

• Effective date January 1, 2019, except for regulations section which takes effect immediately.