HI HB1117

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

Restores authority to Hawaii counties to adopt local ordinances more stringent than state law regarding tobacco and e-cigarette sales

Addresses youth vaping concerns, citing 2021 data showing 32% of public high school students and 13% of middle school students have tried electronic smoking devices

Notes neighbor island counties have higher vaping rates, with Hawaii County at 22%, Maui County at 18%, and Kauai County at 16% for high school students

Takes effect upon approval and does not affect rights, duties, penalties, or proceedings that existed before the effective date