Bill > LD166

This bill prohibits pharmacies and retail establishments containing pharmacies from selling tobacco products, effectively banning tobacco sales in these locations. The legislation defines a pharmacy as a retail pharmacy according to existing state law and establishes significant civil penalties for violations. Specifically, pharmacies and retail establishments with pharmacies will be ineligible for retail tobacco licenses, and if they sell, keep for sale, or distribute tobacco products, they can be fined up to $2,000 per day for each violation. Each day of continued sales constitutes a separate offense, which means potential fines can accumulate quickly. The bill also includes a provision to remove a specific cigarette stamp discount rate, though this appears to be a minor technical amendment. The new restrictions will take effect on April 1, 2026, giving businesses time to prepare for the change. By targeting tobacco sales in pharmacies, the bill aims to reduce tobacco accessibility and promote public health, recognizing the inherent contradiction of selling tobacco products in healthcare-related retail environments.

Health and Social Services

https://legislature.maine.gov/legis/bills/display_ps.asp?LD=166&snum=132