Bill > HB525

This bill comprehensively regulates nicotine vapor products in Montana by establishing a new directory and regulatory framework for their sale and distribution. The legislation requires vapor product manufacturers to submit annual certifications to the Attorney General, detailing each product's compliance with federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) marketing authorization requirements. Manufacturers must provide specific information about their products, including brand names, product categories, flavors, and units sold, and pay associated fees. The Attorney General will maintain a public directory of approved vapor products, and only products listed in this directory can be legally sold in the state. Retailers, wholesalers, and importers are prohibited from selling vapor products not included in the directory, with escalating financial penalties and potential license suspensions for violations. The bill also expands existing tobacco product definitions and reporting requirements to include vapor products, imposes new tax structures for vapor products, and requires manufacturers to appoint a local agent for legal service. Additionally, the legislation includes provisions for unannounced compliance checks, confidentiality of submitted information, and creates a dedicated state revenue account to support administration of these new regulations. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, with applicability to vapor products sold on or after March 1, 2026.

Budget and Finance

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC1706