HI SB2496

Imposes a new excise tax on tobacco products (other than large cigars) equal to an unspecified percentage of wholesale price, effective January 1, 2015.

Establishes that loose and roll-your-own tobacco are considered tobacco products subject to the excise tax to prevent smokers from switching to cheaper alternatives as cigarette prices increase.

Directs collected tax revenue to be split between the Hawaii cancer research special fund and the Hawaii tobacco prevention and control trust fund.

Aims to reduce tobacco use by aligning tax rates across all tobacco products, thereby eliminating lower-priced tobacco alternatives and encouraging cessation, particularly among youth.

Takes effect July 1, 2150 (an apparent clerical error, as the tax itself is effective January 1, 2015).