Hawaii Proposal Bans Tobacco and Vaping for Younger Generations

On March 15th, according to a report by Halfwheel, the Hawaii Senate proposed a bill, known as S.B. 148, that would make it illegal for anyone born after 2002 to possess, purchase, or use tobacco or vaping products. However, those born before January 1st, 2003, are exempt and can continue to purchase and consume these products. These regulations apply only within the state of Hawaii, meaning that tourists entering Hawaii must also comply with the law, but Hawaii residents are not bound by it when visiting other states.

SB 148 Bill | Source: Hawaii State Legislature

Those caught selling or providing tobacco or e-cigarettes to individuals under the age of 21 will face fines: $500 for the first offense, and $500-$2000 for subsequent offenses.

Starting from those born in 2002, if found to have violated the law as a consumer, they will face a first-time penalty of $10. The second offense will result in a $50 penalty or the option to perform 48-72 hours of community service.

Implementing a ban on sales to specific age groups is not a new initiative in Hawaii.

According to 2FIRSTS, New Zealand will become the first country in the world to pass such a law in 2022. The law prohibits the sale of tobacco products to anyone born on or after January 1, 2009.

New Zealand passes similar legislation | Source: 2FIRSTS

The United States' states of California and Nevada have also proposed similar suggestions, but have not yet been passed. If the bill in Hawaii is passed, it will take effect on January 1, 2024. It is worth noting that all six current proposers of the bill are Democrats.

Hawaii has always been one of the least tobacco-friendly states.

In March, Hawaii State Representative Scott Matayoshi proposed a bill (HB 537) which would set the tax on electronic cigarettes at the same rate as traditional cigarettes. Meanwhile, on March 2, Hawaii's flavor ban bill (HB 551) was also reintroduced to the legislature, according to local news reports. The original ban on flavored e-cigarette products in Hawaii was passed in 2022, but was ultimately vetoed by the governor due to poor phrasing.

Reference:

Text of SB148 Bill

A proposed bill in Hawaii aims to prohibit the use of tobacco and vaping products for those born after 2002. The ban would be permanent.