South Carolina Considers Banning Local Tobacco Laws

Feb.15.2023
South Carolina Considers Banning Local Tobacco Laws
South Carolina plans to ban local regulations on e-cigarettes and tobacco products, sparking opposition from public health groups.

South Carolina is considering a proposal that would ban local governments from enacting regulations related to electronic cigarettes and other tobacco products. The measure would allow existing local ordinances that were in place before December 31, 2020 to continue until that date, and would prohibit cities in the state from enacting tobacco license rules.


The proposed legislation is facing opposition from public health organizations such as the American Cancer Society. As per data from the Tax and Fiscal Affairs Office, the state is expected to earn nearly $30 million in revenue from tobacco taxes in 2022.


At present, no city in South Carolina intends to restrict tobacco sales. Store managers and supporters of the industry believe that such regulations would be detrimental to business and should be uniformly applied across the state. However, opponents fear that this could exacerbate public health concerns.


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South Carolina is deliberating on prohibiting local regulations on e-cigarette usage.


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