Connecticut House Bill HB05464

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/5/20
• Refer: 3/5/20

Caption

An Act Concerning The Tax Treatment Of Tobacco Products That Are Exported From The State.

Impact

If enacted, HB 5464 would significantly impact the financial operations of tobacco distributors. By exempting exported products from state taxes, the bill could foster increased business for those distributors engaged in export activities. This legislative change is anticipated to encourage further growth in the tobacco export market, potentially making Connecticut a more attractive location for tobacco companies looking to minimize tax liabilities associated with their products. However, it's essential to recognize that this would also reduce state tax revenue derived from tobacco products.

Summary

House Bill 5464 aims to amend the tax treatment of tobacco products exported from the state of Connecticut. The bill specifies that tobacco products owned by a distributor and located in a warehouse in Connecticut will not be subject to the state tobacco tax at the time they are manufactured, purchased, imported, or received if they are exported from the state. This proposed change is intended to make it more favorable for distributors operating in Connecticut to export tobacco products without incurring additional state taxes at the time of exportation.

Contention

Opposition to HB 5464 may arise from public health advocates and fiscal watchdog organizations that express concern about the implications of decreased tobacco taxation. They argue that lowering the tax burden on tobacco exports could undermine the state's public health efforts to reduce tobacco consumption. Furthermore, critics may worry about the potential for increased tobacco availability in markets where health risks are prominent, raising questions about the state's commitment to health policies aimed at reducing smoking rates.