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Bill

HB 1553

TO REPEAL THE PROHIBITION AGAINST THE SALE AND DISTRIBUTION OF NOVELTY LIGHTERS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Clint Penzo and 1 co-sponsor

HB 1553 aimed to lift Arkansas's ban on selling novelty lighters, increasing their availability in stores, but the bill ultimately did not progress in the legislative process.

Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
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Bill Summary · HB 1553

Summary of House Bill 1553

Bill Number: HB 1553
Title: To Repeal the Prohibition Against the Sale and Distribution of Novelty Lighters
Status: Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment
Introduced: February 21, 2025
Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1553 aimed to repeal existing legislation in Arkansas that prohibits the sale and distribution of novelty lighters. The intent behind this bill was to remove restrictions on these products, which are characterized by their entertaining designs and features that appeal to children.

Key Provisions

The bill proposed the following significant changes to the Arkansas Code:

  • Repeal of Prohibition: The bill sought to repeal Arkansas Code § 5-60-102, which currently prohibits the retail sale, offer of retail sale, gift, or distribution of novelty lighters within the state.

  • Definition of Novelty Lighters: The bill defined "novelty lighter" as a product used to ignite combustible materials that features entertaining audio or visual elements appealing to children aged ten or younger. Examples include lighters shaped like cartoon characters, toys, or other child-friendly items.

  • Exemptions: The prohibition would not apply to novelty lighters that are:

    • Actively being transported through the state.
    • Located in a warehouse closed to the public for retail sales.

  • Penalties for Violation: Under the existing law, individuals found guilty of violating the prohibition faced fines ranging from $25 to $500, along with court costs.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1553 would have allowed the sale and distribution of novelty lighters in Arkansas, potentially increasing the availability of these products in retail settings. This change could have had implications for consumer choice, retail business operations, and child safety considerations, as novelty lighters are designed to appeal to children.

Legislative Timeline

  • February 21, 2025: Bill filed.
  • February 24, 2025: Bill read for the first time, rules suspended, read a second time, and referred to the House Judiciary Committee.
  • May 5, 2025: Bill died in the House Committee at Sine Die adjournment, meaning it did not progress further in the legislative process.

In summary, HB 1553 was an attempt to modify existing regulations surrounding novelty lighters in Arkansas, but it ultimately did not advance through the legislative process.

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

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