MN HF2177

Prohibits licensees, employees, agents, and out-of-state retailers from selling or offering for sale flavored tobacco products, tobacco-related devices, electronic delivery devices, and nicotine or lobelia delivery products in Minnesota effective August 1, 2024.

Defines "flavored product" as any tobacco or related device imparting a taste or smell other than tobacco that is distinguishable by an ordinary consumer, including chocolate, fruit, mint, menthol, vanilla, candy, dessert, alcoholic beverage, herb, or spice flavors.

Creates rebuttable presumption a product is flavored if manufacturer, licensee, or out-of-state retailer makes public claims or uses text, images, or coloring on packaging to indicate a non-tobacco taste or smell.

Establishes administrative penalties of $300 for first violation, $600 for second violation within 36 months, and $1,000 for third or subsequent violations within 36 months, with 7-day minimum suspension and possible revocation of sales license for third violations; penalties calculated per-item and per-transaction basis.

Classifies flavored products sold in violation as contraband subject to forfeiture and civil penalties under existing Minnesota law; each sale or offer for sale constitutes a separate violation.