NATIONAL REPORT – Tobacco legislation and regulation is under constant review at the local, state and state levels. This monthly summary features the latest proposals and approved changes in the United States in Convenience Store News.
ALASKA
Anchorage – Anchorage legislature passed an ordinance to add electronic cigarettes and vaping products to the city’s existing tobacco tax. Tobacco vapor machines and e-cigarettes as well as liquids and cartridges are taxed at 55 percent of the wholesale price.
CALIFORNIA
San Diego County – The Board of Trustees today approved changes to a proposed tobacco license regulation and set the measure for a second reading in December. If approved, the regulation sets a minimum package size and a minimum sale price. Allow the county to enforce minimum age laws and a previously passed ban on flavored tobacco products; and prohibit the sale of tobacco products in pharmacies.
COLORADO
Loveland – Loveland City Council voted for an ordinance banning the sale of flavored tobacco products. If approved at second reading, the ban would come into effect on January 1st. The second reading of the regulation is scheduled for December 1st.
MONTANA
Missoula – Missoula City Council passed a measure banning the sale of flavored steam products. The new law comes into force on January 25, 2021 and applies to tobacco sales within city limits and within a five-mile radius. The regulation also prohibits the use of self-service displays.
NORTH CAROLINA
New Hanover County – The New Hanover County Board of Commissioners unanimously voted on November 16 to ban the use of flammable tobacco and electronic cigarettes in New Hanover County. The ordinance comes into force on February 1, 2021. The ordinance approves and regulates the smoke and vaping rule, passed by the New Hanover County Health & Human Services Board on October 16, and includes banning tobacco and e-cigarettes in county, city buildings, vehicles and grounds, and public places in the county such as restaurants, bars and entertainment venues.
OREGON
Salem – State voters approved an election to impose a tax on electronic cigarettes and nicotine vapor products and to increase the state excise tax on cigarettes. Measure 108 increases the cigarette levy by $ 2 per pack to $ 3.33 and imposes a 65 percent tax on e-cigarettes. In addition, the cigar tax cap will be increased to $ 1 per cigar. The state expects new annual revenue from the measure of around 130 million US dollars.