HB2125 Summary

• Requires retail tobacco vendors to obtain a state tobacco retail sales license beginning January 1, 2024, and display the license at their location before selling tobacco products.

• Expands the definition of "tobacco product" to include electronic smoking devices, vape pens, e-cigarettes, and related components or substances that may be aerosolized or vaporized, regardless of nicotine content.

• Establishes civil penalties for retail tobacco vendors who sell tobacco products to underage persons: $500-$750 for first violation, $750-$1,000 plus 7-day sales prohibition for second violation, $1,000-$1,500 plus 30-day prohibition for third violation, and $1,000-$3,000 plus 3-year prohibition for fourth or subsequent violations within 36 months.

• Requires retail tobacco vendors to verify age using government-issued photographic identification and no verification required for persons appearing to be 30 or older; requires at least two unannounced annual compliance checks using underage purchasers.

• Removes criminal penalties for minors in possession of tobacco products and replaces references to age eighteen with federal minimum age of sale for tobacco products standards; prohibits self-service displays except in bars and employee lounges with age restrictions.