SB 1496 Summary

• Raises the legal age to purchase tobacco products, e-liquids, vapor products, and alternative nicotine products from 18 to 21 years old, effective December 31, 2021.

• Creates a new licensing system under Title 4, Chapter 4 requiring retailers of these products to obtain licenses from the Department of Liquor Licenses and Control, with application fees, two-year renewal periods, and penalties for violations.

• Establishes strict age verification requirements for retailers, including examining government-issued photo identification for anyone who appears under 27 years old, with defenses available for proper ID record-keeping.

• Prohibits delivery sales of e-liquids, vapor products, and alternative nicotine products to minors and requires third-party age verification through commercial databases before shipment.

• Preempts local regulation of tobacco and nicotine product sales while allowing cities, towns, and counties to adopt zoning restrictions on store locations and billboard advertising near schools and community facilities.