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Bill

S 1915

Remove the Stain Act

119th Congress Introduced by Richard Blumenthal and 7 co-sponsors

Bill S 1915 raises tobacco taxes, sets larger minimum pack sizes, and updates product definitions to reduce consumption and improve public health, especially among youth.

Introduced in Senate
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 1915

Summary of Bill S 1915

Bill Number: S 1915
Title: Amends certain definitions relating to tobacco products and changes the minimum pack sizes for tobacco products and the tax amount for tobacco products
Status: Referred to Health
Introduced: January 14, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 1915 aims to update and clarify definitions related to tobacco products, as well as to modify the minimum packaging requirements and tax rates associated with these products. The intent is to enhance public health measures by regulating tobacco products more effectively and potentially reducing consumption through higher costs and stricter packaging standards.

Key Provisions

  1. Amendment of Definitions:

    • The bill proposes to revise existing definitions of tobacco products to ensure they encompass a broader range of items, including newer products that may not have been adequately covered under previous legislation.

  2. Minimum Pack Sizes:

    • The legislation seeks to establish new minimum pack sizes for various tobacco products. This change is intended to discourage the purchase of smaller, more affordable packs that may appeal to younger consumers or those looking to reduce their spending on tobacco.

  3. Tax Adjustments:

    • The bill includes provisions to increase the tax amount levied on tobacco products. This tax increase aims to further deter tobacco use by making these products more expensive and to generate additional revenue that could be allocated to public health initiatives.

Impact

  • Public Health:

    • The bill is expected to have a positive impact on public health by reducing tobacco consumption, particularly among youth and low-income individuals who may be more sensitive to price changes.

  • Tobacco Industry:

    • Tobacco manufacturers and retailers may face challenges due to the increased costs associated with higher taxes and the need to adjust their product offerings to comply with new minimum pack sizes.

  • Consumers:

    • Consumers will likely experience higher prices for tobacco products, which may lead to a decrease in overall consumption and encourage cessation efforts.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Action:

    • As of January 14, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Health Committee for further consideration.

  • Related Legislation:

    • Bill S 1915 is connected to several prior-session bills (S 702, S 4365, S 157, S 468, S 1167, S 3448) and has a companion bill (A 1663) that may address similar issues.

This summary provides an overview of Bill S 1915, highlighting its main objectives and potential implications for public health and the tobacco industry. Further developments will depend on the outcomes of committee discussions and subsequent legislative actions.

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

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