Oklahoma House Bill HB2128

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/21
• Refer: 2/2/21

Caption

Tobacco; vapor products; minors; Youth Access to Tobacco Act; compliance; ABLE Commission; licenses; fees; penalties; Youth Access to Tobacco Compliance Revolving Fund; effective date.

Impact

One of the significant changes proposed in HB2128 is the redefinition and updating of penalties. The amendments adjust the fines for violations of tobacco laws, enhancing consequences for retailers who fail to comply with age restrictions. The bill also emphasizes proper signage regarding the age limitation for tobacco sales and mandates specific compliance training for retail employees. Furthermore, it creates the Youth Access to Tobacco Compliance Revolving Fund, which will generate revenue from licensing fees to support compliance checks and enforcement efforts by the ABLE Commission.

Summary

House Bill 2128 aims to amend existing Oklahoma laws regarding the sale and distribution of tobacco and vapor products, particularly focusing on preventing access to these products by persons under the age of twenty-one. This bill modifies penalties associated with the purchase, possession, and distribution of tobacco products and introduces new compliance requirements for retailers. It seeks to strengthen the Prevention of Youth Access to Tobacco Act by removing restrictions on local ordinances and allowing for a more flexible regulatory framework that addresses youth access to tobacco products.

Contention

While HB2128 aims to mitigate youth access to tobacco, discussions surrounding the bill highlight potential points of contention. Critics argue that by easing restrictions and modifying penalties, the legislation may inadvertently undermine the severity of current regulations meant to protect minors. Local governments may express concerns regarding their ability to adopt stricter regulations under the new framework, fearing that it limits their capacity to address community-specific issues related to youth smoking and health. Proponents, on the other hand, advocate that the bill will lead to increased compliance and a more consistent approach across the state.