Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

Arkansas House Bill HB1626

Introduced
2/27/25  
Refer
2/27/25  

Caption

To Prohibit The Sale Of Disposal Vapor Products From A Prohibited Foreign Party.

Impact

If enacted, HB1626 will amend the Arkansas Tobacco Products Tax Act of 1977. It introduces significant penalties for retailers or entities that continue to sell disposable vapor products, categorizing such violations as a Class A misdemeanor. The bill empowers the Director of Arkansas Tobacco Control to seize products sold in violation of this law, enhancing regulatory oversight of tobacco sales and aiming to reduce access to disposable vaporizers.

Summary

House Bill 1626 aims to prohibit the sale of disposable vapor products in the state of Arkansas. The bill defines disposable vapor products as those that have non-detachable batteries, cannot be refilled with e-liquid, and are intended to be discarded after use. This measure is part of a broader strategy to regulate tobacco products and address public health concerns associated with vaping, especially among younger demographics.

Contention

Discussion surrounding HB1626 may bring forth various points of contention. Advocates for the bill argue that it is a necessary step towards safeguarding public health by reducing the availability of potentially harmful vapor products, especially for minors. However, opponents may raise concerns about the implications of restricting product availability for adult consumers and potential economic impacts on retailers that sell these products. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for a grace period of ninety days for compliance, which may also lead to discussions on the implementation and transition of existing products.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR HB1725

To Inform The Public Of Health Risks Caused By Vapor Products, E-liquid Products, And Alternative Nicotine Products; And To Ensure The Safety Of Arkansas Youth.

AR HB1606

Regarding The Suspension Of Permits For A Retailer's Failure To Pay A Wholesaler Or Manufacturer For Tobacco Products, Vapor Products, Alternative Nicotine Products, Or E-liquids.

AR HB1605

To Provide Regulation Of Hemp-derived Products By The Arkansas Tobacco Control Board.

AR SB358

To Prohibit Industrial Hemp That Contain Certain Delta Tetrahydrocannabinol Substances; To Include Certain Tetrahydrocannabinol In The List Of Schedule Vi Controlled Substances; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB78

To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HR1009

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023 And To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business.

AR SR5

To Authorize The Introduction Of A Nonappropriation Bill To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023 And To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business.

AR HB1300

To Amend The Prohibition On Nonprofit, Tax Exempt, Or Governmentally-funded Hospitals From Holding A Licensed Pharmacy Permit For The Sale At Retail Of Drugs.

AR HB1653

To Prohibit The Purchase Of Small Unmanned Aircrafts Manufactured Or Assembled By A Covered Foreign Entity.

AR HB1311

To Amend The Prohibition Of Nonprofit, Tax Exempt, Or Governmentally-funded Hospitals From Holding A Licensed Pharmacy Permit For The Sale Of Drugs At Retail.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.