Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

Arkansas House Bill HB1725

Introduced
3/27/23  
Refer
3/27/23  
Report Pass
3/30/23  
Engrossed
4/4/23  
Refer
4/5/23  

Caption

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.

Impact

The proposed legislation would bring significant changes to the regulation of tobacco and nicotine products in Arkansas. It emphasizes the importance of public health, particularly in safeguarding youth against the harmful effects of nicotine consumption. By establishing a formal directory for manufacturers and requiring compliance with specific safety and health standards, the bill seeks to mitigate health risks posed by unregulated or potentially harmful products. This regulatory framework is expected to create a more structured environment for both consumers and manufacturers, enhancing the accountability and transparency of the market.

Summary

House Bill 1725 aims to amend the Arkansas Tobacco Products Tax Act of 1977, primarily focusing on the regulation of vapor products, e-liquids, and alternative nicotine products. The bill seeks to address health risks associated with these products, enhance consumer safety, and provide stronger regulation and enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with state law. Provisions include the establishment of certification fees for manufacturers and potential civil penalties for violations, which aim to support the operations of the Arkansas Tobacco Control.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1725 appears to lean towards cautious optimism among public health advocates and regulatory bodies. Supporters believe that the bill is necessary to address the growing public health concerns related to vaping and e-liquids, especially among young people. However, some stakeholders may express apprehension regarding the feasibility of the enforcement measures and the potential economic implications for businesses involved in the manufacture and sale of these products. The balance between public safety and economic vitality is likely to be a point of contention among legislators.

Contention

Notable points of contention within the bill's discussions may revolve around the certification process for manufacturers, the penalties for non-compliance, and the potential impacts on small businesses engaged in the manufacturing or retail of vaping products. Opposition may arise from those arguing that stringent regulations could stifle innovation and economic growth in the sector, whereas proponents will likely counter with public health imperatives and the need for effective oversight to protect minors and the general public from the adverse effects of nicotine and vaping.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR SB41

An Act For The Arkansas Minority Health Initiative Of The Department Of Health - Arkansas Minority Health Commission Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR HB1022

An Act For The University Of Arkansas And The Division Of Agriculture - Arkansas Biosciences Institutes Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB35

An Act For The Department Of Health - Arkansas Tobacco Settlement Commission Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

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 HB1010

An Act For The Arkansas State University - Arkansas Biosciences Institute Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

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 SB65

An Act For The Arkansas Public Defender Commission Reappropriation.

AR SB55

An Act For The Department Of Transformation And Shared Services - Arkansas Geographic Information Systems Office Appropriation For The 2024-2025 Fiscal Year.

AR SB71

An Act For The Department Of Education - Arkansas School For The Blind And Arkansas School For The Deaf Reappropriation.

Similar Bills

IA SSB3101

A bill for an act relating to the regulation of vapor products, and providing penalties.(See SF 2402.)

IA SF2402

A bill for an act relating to the regulation of vapor products, and providing penalties.(Formerly SSB 3101.)

IA HSB682

A bill for an act relating to the regulation of vapor products, and providing penalties.(See HF 2677.)

IA HF2677

A bill for an act relating to the regulation of vapor products, and providing penalties. (Formerly HSB 682.) Effective date: 07/01/2024.

AR SB252

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

TX HB3772

Relating to the sale of certain e-cigarettes in this state and a directory of e-cigarette manufacturers and their products; authorizing fees; authorizing administrative and civil penalties; creating a criminal offense.

TX SB1698

Relating to the sale of certain e-cigarettes in this state and a directory of e-cigarette manufacturers and their products; authorizing fees; authorizing administrative and civil penalties; creating a criminal offense.

VT H0729

An act relating to establishing a tobacco substitute directory