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Bill

Bill

SB 1404

RELATING TO TAXATION.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Kouchi

SB 1404 increases tobacco taxes to fund public health programs, impacting consumers with higher prices and supporting initiatives to reduce tobacco use.

Referred to CPN/HRE, WAM.
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Bill Summary · SB 1404

Summary of SB 1404 - Relating to Taxation

Bill Number: SB 1404
Introduced On: January 21, 2025
Current Status: Referred to CPN/HRE, WAM
Classification: Bill
Subject: Cigarette Tax, Disposition of Revenues, Tobacco Tax

Purpose and Intent

SB 1404 aims to amend existing taxation laws related to cigarettes and tobacco products. The primary intent of the bill is to adjust the tax rates on these products and to outline the specific allocation of the revenues generated from these taxes. The legislation seeks to enhance public health initiatives and fund related programs through increased taxation on tobacco products.

Key Provisions

  • Adjustment of Tax Rates: The bill proposes an increase in the current cigarette tax rate. Specific figures regarding the new rates will be detailed in the final version of the bill.

  • Revenue Allocation: SB 1404 stipulates how the revenues collected from the increased tobacco taxes will be distributed. This may include funding for health education programs, smoking cessation initiatives, and other public health efforts aimed at reducing tobacco use.

  • Enforcement Measures: The bill may include provisions for stricter enforcement of tobacco sales regulations, ensuring compliance with the new tax structure.

Affected Parties

  • Consumers: The bill will directly impact consumers of tobacco products, as the increased tax rates will likely lead to higher prices at retail outlets.

  • Retailers: Businesses that sell tobacco products will need to adjust their pricing strategies and ensure compliance with the new tax regulations.

  • Public Health Programs: Organizations and initiatives focused on public health may benefit from the increased funding generated by the new tax revenues, allowing for expanded outreach and education efforts.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 21, 2025: Bill SB 1404 was introduced and is pending introduction.
  • January 23, 2025: The bill passed its First Reading in the legislative process.
  • January 27, 2025: The bill was referred to the Committees on Commerce, Consumer Protection, and Health (CPN/HRE) and Ways and Means (WAM) for further consideration.

Related Legislation

  • HB 1085: This bill serves as a companion to SB 1404, suggesting that similar provisions or objectives may be pursued in the House of Representatives.

Conclusion

SB 1404 represents a significant legislative effort to address tobacco taxation and its implications for public health funding. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, further details regarding tax rates and revenue allocation will be clarified, impacting consumers, retailers, and public health initiatives alike.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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