Prohibits the sale or distribution of certain lighters
Impact
If enacted, SB850 will amend Chapter 407 of Missouri's Revised Statutes, introducing new regulations around the sale and distribution of lighters. This includes forbidding the offering or selling of unsafe or counterfeit lighters, both online and in-person. Exemptions are made for the interstate transportation and storage of such products in closed distribution centers, meaning businesses may still operate under specific conditions while complying with state laws. The implications of this bill revolve around increased consumer safety and potential impacts on businesses dealing with lighters.
Summary
Senate Bill 850 aims to enhance consumer safety by prohibiting the sale or distribution of counterfeit and unsafe lighters in the state of Missouri. The bill specifically defines what constitutes a 'counterfeit lighter', which includes any lighter that infringes on intellectual property rights. It also outlines what qualifies as an 'unsafe lighter', establishing compliance with specific safety standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). By doing so, the bill seeks to protect consumers from potentially hazardous lighters that do not meet safety protocols.
Contention
While the bill is generally focused on consumer protection, there may be concerns from retailers and distributors regarding the strict prohibitions it establishes. Some stakeholders might argue that the definitions of 'counterfeit' and 'unsafe' could be broad and subject to interpretation, which may lead to unintended consequences for businesses unaware of compliance requirements. Additionally, there could be discussions surrounding the balance between protecting consumers and ensuring that legitimate businesses are not unduly burdened by stringent regulations.