Legislators in South Carolina are considering several proposals that would prohibit local governments from enacting additional regulations on electronic cigarettes and other tobacco products.
This measure ensures that any local laws implemented before December 31, 2020, will remain valid. It also prohibits cities from creating their own tobacco permit regulations.
Dozens of public health organizations, including the American Cancer Society, have voiced opposition to the bill, according to WLTX.
According to data from the Office of Taxation and Fiscal Affairs, the tobacco tax revenue for the state is projected to reach nearly $30 million in 2022. Supporters of the measure, like Moe Raed, a store manager at a shop called Day and Night E-cigarettes, argue that regulations are detrimental to businesses and should be standardized across the entire state.
Two months ago, the Day & Night electronic cigarette store opened in Colombia. Raed said, "Yes, business has been good lately." He added that over half of the store's revenue comes from the sales of electronic cigarettes.
Raed stated, "People have been quitting smoking recently because tobacco has become more expensive." He believes that his adult customers should not be limited in what products they can purchase. "I don't allow anyone under 21 to enter these stores," he added. "Many tobacco shops will close. This will harm many businesses and other individuals.
There are currently no cities in South Carolina that are hoping to limit tobacco sales. This bill does not affect the ability of local governments to regulate local tobacco businesses.
Over the past six years, a similar bill has been proposed but has failed to pass.
South Carolina is one of 10 states without a tobacco retailer license. Last year, a bill proposing such a license was stalled in a subcommittee due to opposition from convenience store owners.
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