California Assembly Bill AB1691

California 2019-2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/22/19
• Failed: 2/3/20

Caption

Cigarettes and tobacco products licensing.

Impact

The bill's nonsubstantive changes are intended to streamline existing regulations while maintaining the same licensing requirements for tobacco retailers. By updating the legal language, the bill may enhance the clarity and enforceability of the licensing process, ensuring that all stakeholders, including retailers and regulators, can more easily understand and comply with the law. As such, the bill is not expected to introduce new costs or significant changes for existing businesses engaged in the sale of tobacco products.

Summary

Assembly Bill No. 1691, introduced by Assembly Member Gloria, seeks to amend Section 22970 of the Business and Professions Code, which pertains to the licensing requirements for the sale of cigarette and tobacco products in California. The existing licensing framework was established under the Cigarette and Tobacco Products Licensing Act of 2003, which mandates that retailers obtain a license to sell such products. The proposed amendments are primarily nonsubstantive, concerning the citation of the act, and aim to clarify the existing legal language without altering the fundamental requirements for retailers.

Contention

Since AB 1691 involves an amendment that does not change the substantive law regarding tobacco sales, it may garner limited opposition. However, in the broader context of tobacco regulation, discussions around the tobacco market frequently involve strong opinions from public health advocates and consumer protection groups. They often debate the efficacy of current licensing laws and their implications on public health, particularly regarding youth access to tobacco products. Any discussions regarding this bill may also reflect ongoing tensions between regulatory agencies and businesses in the tobacco sector.