HB273 Summary

• Raises the minimum legal age for purchasing, possessing, and transporting tobacco products, electronic nicotine delivery systems, and alternative nicotine products from 19 to 21 years old.

• Prohibits advertising of these products in certain print and digital media, on billboards within 1,000 feet of K-12 schools or playgrounds, and restricts use of candy-themed or child-appealing imagery in product labeling and marketing.

• Requires e-liquid and alternative nicotine product manufacturers to submit certifications to the Department of Revenue by March 1, 2022, and maintains a public directory of compliant manufacturers; violations subject to $1,000 daily fines.

• Prohibits sales of these products through vending machines unless located in age-restricted areas or requiring employee-controlled dispensing, and mandates child-resistant packaging for liquid nicotine containers.

• Makes violations by minors a civil administrative offense (not criminal) with fines of $10-$50, and assigns the Department of Mental Health responsibility for ensuring state compliance with federal tobacco control reporting requirements.