CT HB05539

Effective October 1, 2026, requires cigarette/tobacco distributor and dealer license applications to include criminal background checks for owners, disclosure of enforcement actions or settlements, designation of a fiduciary agent personally liable for debts owed to the Department of Revenue Services, and certification of compliance with federal and state law.

Lowers the ownership disclosure threshold for electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) dealer registrations from 10% to 5% financial interest in the applicant business.

Authorizes state or local police to immediately seize cigarettes, tobacco products, ENDS, and vapor products sold in violation of licensing requirements as a "common nuisance," with confiscation and destruction costs borne by the violator.

Establishes civil penalties up to $10,000 per ENDS or vapor product sold, offered, or marketed in violation of state law, with the Attorney General authorized to bring enforcement actions and recover investigation costs and attorneys' fees.

Classifies violations of these licensing and sales requirements as unfair trade practices under Connecticut consumer protection law.