S.C. House Passed Bill On Local Control Of Tobacco And Nicotine Product Sales

The proposed legislation aims to crack down on businesses illegally selling nicotine products to minors.

The S.C. general assembly passed a bill that is now on its way to McMaster’s desk.

The bill, H-3681 would make it illegal for local governments to enforce rules on cigarette, e-cigarette, vape, and other tobacco and nicotine product sales, including banning products with certain flavors or ingredients from being sold within a city or county.

Supporters argue uniform tobacco regulations are needed statewide for businesses that operate in several places while those who oppose argue there is danger in taking away ‘local control’.

The bill would not prevent cities and counties from enacting no-smoking areas or zoning ordinances to ban smoke or vape sales in certain places, such as near schools.

The proposed legislation aims to crack down on businesses illegally selling nicotine products to minors.