HI HB605

Establishes a reduced ignition propensity cigarette program special fund in the state treasury administered by the state fire council, with funds sourced from fees collected under the existing cigarette program.

Deposits all moneys collected from the reduced ignition propensity cigarette program (approximately $390,000 collected since September 30, 2009) into the special fund, with all interest earned becoming part of the fund.

Authorizes the state fire council to employ one full-time administrator and one full-time assistant to manage program duties including adopting rules, reviewing certifications for approximately 600 cigarette brands and styles, maintaining certified brand lists, and conducting laboratory testing.

Requires manufacturers to pay $375 per cigarette listed in certifications to be deposited into the special fund; authorizes annual fee adjustments to cover administration, staffing, processing, testing, enforcement, inspection, and oversight costs.

Takes effect on July 1, 2011.