Ohio House Rejects Governor's Veto on Flavored Tobacco Ban

Regulations by 2FIRSTS.ai
Dec.14.2023
Ohio House Rejects Governor's Veto on Flavored Tobacco Ban
Ohio House of Representatives rejects Governor Mike DeWine's veto, allowing cities to ban flavored tobacco products.

According to a report from the Cincinnati Enquirer, the Ohio House of Representatives rejected a veto by Governor Mike DeWine on December 13th. DeWine had been pushing for a nationwide ban on flavored tobacco and flavored e-cigarette products, claiming they are marketed towards children. The bill aimed to prohibit cities from implementing bans on flavored tobacco.

 

This move signifies the latest effort by Republican lawmakers to try and prevent local regulation of flavored tobacco products, including menthol flavor. Columbus is preparing to ban the sale of flavored tobacco next month, while Cincinnati, Dayton, and Cleveland are also considering similar proposals. Supporters argue that this is necessary to reduce youth e-cigarette use.

 

In late 2022, legislators for the first time passed a bill that prevents local bans on the sale of such tobacco products, as the Columbus City Council voted to prohibit their sale. The same proposal has also been included in the state's two-year budget.

 

However, Governor DeWine has vetoed this measure twice, stating that the state should support all resolutions aimed at protecting the lives of young Ohioans.

 

Currently, various cities in Ohio are still able to prohibit flavored tobacco. The Senate also needs to overturn DeWine's veto, but it is unclear at the moment if they will do so.

 

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