Bill > H4226

This bill aims to modernize tobacco control in Massachusetts. Key provisions include: - Allowing the state lottery director to suspend the lottery licenses of retailers, cigar retailers, or electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) retailers for up to 60 days if their tobacco or ENDS license is suspended or revoked for certain violations. - Requiring the Group Insurance Commission to provide coverage for tobacco cessation counseling and products for state employees without cost-sharing. - Establishing an excise tax of 75% of the wholesale price on ENDS, requiring ENDS distributors and retailers to be licensed, and imposing penalties for unlicensed sales. - Prohibiting the sale of flavored tobacco products, including ENDS, except in smoking bars and retail tobacco stores. - Limiting the nicotine content in ENDS sold to 35 milligrams per milliliter, except at retail tobacco stores and smoking bars. - Expanding the Department of Public Health's authority to regulate the sale, advertising, and signage of tobacco and ENDS products. The bill also includes provisions related to Medicaid and private insurance coverage for tobacco cessation services.

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/H4226