HI HB1117

Repeals section 328J-11.5 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes, which currently preempts county ordinances regulating the sale of cigarettes, tobacco products, and electronic smoking devices.

Restores county authority to adopt local ordinances that are more stringent than state regulations regarding the sale and access to tobacco and electronic smoking devices.

Addresses escalating youth vaping rates in Hawaii, with 32% of high school students and 13% of middle school students having tried electronic smoking devices according to 2021 data.

Notes that e-cigarette products with the highest nicotine content (5% or greater) increased from 5% of sales nationally in 2017 to 81% in 2022, and reports vaping use among young adults aged 18-34 at 25-27%.

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