Bill > A00077

This bill amends the New York public health law to prohibit the sale of flavored smokeless tobacco within 500 feet of any public or private elementary or secondary school. The bill provides a detailed definition of "flavored smokeless tobacco" as any tobacco or nicotine product intended for oral use that contains a characterizing flavor beyond traditional tobacco taste, which includes flavors like fruit, chocolate, vanilla, mint, candy, dessert, and others. The distance measurement will be calculated in straight lines from the property line of the school to the property line of the business selling the product. The bill allows enforcement through existing mechanisms in the public health law, including the ability for individuals to submit complaints to enforcement officers about potential violations. Notably, the bill will go into effect 180 days after becoming law, giving retailers and businesses time to adjust to the new restrictions. The primary aim appears to be reducing youth exposure to flavored tobacco products near schools by creating a buffer zone that makes such products less accessible to students.

Health and Social Services, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A77