HI HB2442

Repeals section 328J-11.5, Hawaii Revised Statutes, which declared the sale of cigarettes, tobacco products, and electronic smoking devices a statewide concern and preempted all local ordinances regulating these products.

Allows counties to enact ordinances regulating the sale of cigarettes, tobacco products, and electronic smoking devices, provided such ordinances are more stringent than state law requirements in chapter 328J, Hawaii Revised Statutes.

Addresses youth vaping epidemic in Hawaii, where 24% of middle school students and 41% of high school students have tried electronic smoking devices, with current use at 13% and 23% respectively.

Restores county-level authority to implement tobacco control measures after the 2018 Act 206 restricted this power, following Hawaii's historical pattern of counties adopting forward-thinking tobacco regulations before statewide action.

Takes effect upon approval and does not affect rights, duties, or proceedings that matured or began before the effective date.