SB 346 - Current law prohibits the sale of individual packs of tobacco products unless they are sold through a vending machine, are displayed behind the check-out counter, or are within view of the clerk at the check-out counter. The act removes the exception for being within view of the clerk at the check-out counter and adds an exception for being sold through a self-service display located in a tobacco specialty store. After January 1, 2010, self-service displays of tobacco products shall be prohibited in any location except in a tobacco specialty store. A self-service display of tobacco products is one where a consumer has access to tobacco products for sale without the assistance of a sales clerk. The penalties for violating this provision are the same as the current penalties for selling tobacco products to minors.
ERIKA JAQUES