HI SB1220

Expands the definition of "tobacco products" in Hawaii law to include any product containing nicotine (not just tobacco), but excludes FDA-approved tobacco cessation products.

Imposes an 80% excise tax on the wholesale price of all tobacco products except large cigars, effective January 1, 2016, applying whether sold at wholesale or used by the wholesaler/dealer.

Directs all additional revenue from the new 80% excise tax to the Hawaii Cancer Research Special Fund for research, operating expenses, and capital expenditures.

Maintains existing tax rates on cigarettes and little cigars while establishing the 80% rate as a deterrent to reduce tobacco use among adults and youth.

Effective date is July 1, 2053 (note: this appears to be a placeholder date rather than the intended effective date).