HI HB1854

Repeals the state preemption of local tobacco product regulations that previously voided all county ordinances regulating cigarettes, tobacco products, and electronic smoking devices.

Clarifies that counties retain authority to enact ordinances regulating the sale of cigarettes, tobacco products, and electronic smoking devices within their jurisdictions, provided the ordinances do not directly conflict with and are more stringent than state law.

Changes state legislative intent from regulating tobacco sales in a "uniform and exclusive manner" to regulating them in a "uniform manner to the extent reasonably possible."

Addresses youth nicotine addiction by enabling counties to respond quickly to local tobacco use trends, citing 2019 survey data showing 30.6% of middle school and 48.3% of high school students have tried electronic smoking devices.

Effective upon approval with no retroactive effect on rights, duties, penalties, or proceedings that occurred before the law's effective date.