Bill > A06444

This bill enacts the Tobacco Product Waste Reduction Act, which prohibits the sale of cigarettes with single-use filters and single-use electronic cigarettes in New York State. The legislation is motivated by several key public health and environmental concerns, including the negative health impacts of tobacco products, the misleading nature of cigarette filters, and the significant environmental pollution caused by cigarette butts and e-cigarette waste. Specifically, the bill defines a single-use filter as a porous device designed to remove or appear to remove toxins from tobacco smoke, and bans tobacco products dealers from selling cigarettes with such filters, attachable single-use filtration devices, and single-use electronic cigarettes. The law includes civil penalties for violations, starting at $500 for a first offense and increasing to $1,500 for subsequent violations in the same calendar year. The bill highlights the environmental and health risks associated with cigarette filters and e-cigarettes, including their contribution to plastic pollution, potential harm to wildlife, risks to children from nicotine exposure, and the lack of effectiveness of filters in making cigarettes safer. The law is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, and aims to reduce tobacco-related health issues and environmental waste.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A6444