Bill > SB429

This bill creates a groundbreaking "nicotine-free generation" policy in Hawaii that will progressively prohibit tobacco and electronic smoking device sales, possession, and consumption for individuals born after January 1, 2005, effective January 1, 2026. The legislation aims to address the significant public health challenges posed by tobacco use, which currently kills 1,400 adults and contributes to 21,000 premature deaths annually in Hawaii, while costing state residents substantial healthcare expenses. By targeting a specific birth cohort rather than implementing a traditional age-based restriction, the bill ensures that those who are currently 21 and older can continue to legally purchase and use tobacco products, while gradually phasing out tobacco access for younger generations. The law modifies several existing statutes to change language from "under twenty-one years of age" to "born on or after January 1, 2005" across multiple sections, including shipping regulations, public place consumption rules, sales restrictions, and penalties. The bill includes provisions for controlled purchases by law enforcement, requires specific signage for retailers, establishes fines for violations, and provides definitions for tobacco and electronic smoking devices, ultimately seeking to reduce youth tobacco use and associated long-term health risks.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=429&year=2026