Bill > SB1314

This bill, effective July 1, 2027, aims to regulate smoke shops by establishing new location, operating hour, and product sale restrictions. Specifically, it prohibits smoke shops from being located within 600 feet of a school or daycare center, unless a local jurisdiction sets a greater distance. It also restricts the retail sale of tobacco products to the public between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. Furthermore, smoke shops will be prohibited from possessing, storing, owning, or selling nitrous oxide, a gas commonly used recreationally and often referred to as "whippets," or any related paraphernalia. The bill also clarifies that the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA), which handles tax and fee administration, will be responsible for establishing regulations for smoke shops, potentially including a new license category and separate fees. Violations of these new provisions will be subject to civil penalties, with the CDTFA empowered to assess penalties and suspend or revoke licenses. The bill also amends existing laws to ensure that smoke shops violating these new regulations are included as exceptions to receiving a retailer license.