NY A06444

Prohibits tobacco dealers from selling cigarettes with single-use filters (including those made of cellulose acetate, plastic, or biodegradable materials), attachable single-use filtration devices, and single-use electronic cigarettes effective January 1, 2026

Civil penalties for violations: $500 for first offense, $1,000 for second offense, and $1,500 for subsequent violations within the same calendar year, with sale of 1-20 prohibited items counting as a single violation

Cites environmental concerns including 5.6 trillion cigarette butts littered annually worldwide, with filters made of non-biodegradable plastic that break into microparticles contaminating waterways and food supplies

References public health findings that tobacco causes 480,000 deaths annually in the U.S. (28,200 in New York) and costs New Yorkers $10.4 billion in healthcare expenses, including $3.3 billion in Medicaid

Excludes FDA-approved drugs or medical devices and products manufactured under New York's medical marijuana program from the electronic cigarette ban