HB 2682 Summary

• Establishes a tobacco retail sales licensing program requiring retail tobacco vendors to obtain licenses from the Department of Liquor Licenses and Control beginning January 1, 2023, with annual fees deposited in a tobacco retail sales licensing fund.

• Prohibits sale of alternative nicotine products, tobacco products, and vapor products to persons under 21 years of age, with escalating civil penalties for violations ranging from $500 for first offense to $1,500-$3,000 for subsequent violations within 36 months.

• Requires retail tobacco vendors to conduct employee training on age verification requirements and implement annual compliance checks by the Department using underage purchasers to assess vendor compliance.

• Amends definitions throughout Arizona Revised Statutes to include "alternative nicotine products" and "vapor products," and adds these products to existing tobacco regulations including prohibitions on vending machine sales and unsolicited delivery.

• Establishes statewide preemption for regulation of alternative nicotine, tobacco, and vapor products while allowing cities, towns, and counties limited authority to regulate location near schools, zoning, and outdoor advertising.