HI HB1284

Amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 328J-11.5 to allow counties to enact ordinances regulating cigarettes, tobacco products, and electronic smoking devices that are more protective of public health than state law.

Changes state preemption language from prohibiting all local ordinances that conflict with state tobacco law to only voiding those less protective than state requirements.

Clarifies that the sale and use of tobacco products are matters of public health concern rather than a statewide concern requiring uniform regulation.

Preserves county authority to pass stronger tobacco control policies, consistent with a 2006 legislature decision allowing local smoking ordinances more stringent than state law.

Effective date: July 1, 2050.