Bill > SB429

This bill creates a groundbreaking "nicotine-free generation" policy in Hawaii that will progressively prohibit tobacco products and electronic smoking devices for individuals born after January 1, 2005. The legislation aims to address the significant health risks associated with tobacco use, which currently causes 1,400 adult deaths and contributes to 21,000 premature deaths annually in Hawaii, while also costing state residents nearly $850 per household in taxes and over half a billion dollars in healthcare expenses. The bill modifies several existing statutes to restrict the sale, possession, furnishing, and consumption of tobacco products for this specific generational cohort, effectively creating a gradually implemented ban. Key changes include requiring retailers to check birth dates instead of age when selling tobacco products, updating signage to reflect the new restrictions, and establishing fines for violations. Notably, the approach is designed to be equitable by allowing those already legally permitted to purchase tobacco to continue doing so, while preventing future generations from ever legally acquiring these products. The bill will take effect on January 1, 2026, providing time for businesses and consumers to adapt to the new regulations, and follows similar initiatives implemented in other jurisdictions like Brookline, Massachusetts, and proposed legislation in the United Kingdom.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=429&year=2025