Minnesota’s tobacco laws are not keeping up with the creativity and marketing of new tobacco products.
From strips that melt in your mouth to orbs that look like Tic Tacs, users can get a nicotine bump anytime, anywhere and undetected. Supporters of new regulations fear these products could lure in a whole new generation of tobacco users.
Rep. Jim Davnie (DFL-Mpls) and Sen. D. Scott Dibble (DFL-Mpls) sponsor
HF3467/
SF3055*, the Tobacco Modernization and Compliance Act of 2010, that would close the loophole on products that supporters say target younger generations. The House passed the bill 118-5 May 5. Passed by the Senate 63-4 on April 28, it now awaits action by Gov. Tim Pawlenty.
The bill would regulate these new products similar to cigarettes and cigars. It would also apply to electronic cigarettes and candy- or fruit-flavored “little cigars” that are similar in size to cigarettes, but because of their design are not as regulated and also cost less.
Rep. Jenifer Loon (R-Eden Prairie) spoke in favor of the bill, adding that it does not increase taxation of tobacco products.“This really is a matter of trying to protect our kids.”