RELATING TO FIRE PROTECTION.

2024 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Kouchi

SB 2228 establishes a Reduced Ignition Propensity Cigarette Program to lower fire risks from cigarettes, enhancing public safety and supporting fire prevention efforts.

Reported from PSM (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 2101) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading and referral to WAM.

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Overview

Bill Number: SB 2228
Introduced On: January 18, 2024
Current Status: Reported from the Public Safety, Intergovernmental, and Military Affairs (PSM) Committee with a recommendation for passage on Second Reading and referral to the Ways and Means (WAM) Committee.
Classification: Legislative Bill
Subject: Fire Protection, Reduced Ignition Propensity Cigarette Program, Special Fund, State Fire Council Package

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of SB 2228 is to enhance fire protection measures within the state by establishing a Reduced Ignition Propensity Cigarette Program. This program aims to reduce the risk of fires caused by cigarettes, which are a significant fire hazard. The bill seeks to create a special fund to support the implementation and management of this program, thereby improving overall fire safety and prevention efforts.

Key Provisions

Reduced Ignition Propensity Cigarette Program: The bill proposes the establishment of a program that mandates the production and sale of cigarettes that are less likely to ignite flammable materials.

Special Fund Creation: A special fund will be created to finance the program, ensuring that resources are allocated specifically for fire prevention initiatives related to cigarette ignition propensity.

State Fire Council Involvement: The bill includes provisions for the State Fire Council to oversee the program, ensuring that it aligns with state fire safety goals and regulations.

Impact

Public Safety: The implementation of this program is expected to significantly reduce the number of fire incidents caused by cigarettes, thereby enhancing public safety.

Manufacturers and Retailers: Cigarette manufacturers and retailers will be affected as they may need to comply with new regulations regarding the production and sale of reduced ignition propensity cigarettes.

Fire Departments and Emergency Services: Local fire departments and emergency services may experience a decrease in fire-related incidents, potentially reducing their operational burdens and costs.

Legislative Timeline

January 18, 2024: Bill introduced and passed First Reading.

January 19, 2024: Referred to the PSM and WAM committees.

January 24, 2024: Public hearing scheduled for 3:01 PM in Conference Room 225 and via videoconference.

January 29, 2024: Report adopted; bill passed Second Reading and referred to WAM.

Related Legislation

HB 1886: This bill serves as a companion to SB 2228, indicating parallel legislative efforts to address similar issues regarding fire protection and cigarette safety.

This summary provides a clear understanding of SB 2228's objectives, key provisions, and potential impacts, making it accessible for both legislative experts and the general public.

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