Overview: HB 5369, Tobacco: licenses; requirement that a person hold a license to sell a nicotine or tobacco product at retail; create certain temporary exemptions to. Amends 1915 PA 31 (MCL 722.641 - 722.645) by adding sec. 1m, was introduced on March 14, 2025 and is currently at the bill electronically reproduced stage as of December 16, 2025.
Purpose and Intent: The bill aims to establish a licensing requirement for the retail sale of nicotine and tobacco products in the state, with certain temporary exemptions, in order to enhance regulatory oversight and prevent underage access.
Key Provisions:
- Requires all persons selling nicotine or tobacco products at retail to obtain a state-issued license
- Provides temporary exemptions from the licensing requirement for certain types of retailers, such as cigar bars and vape shops, until January 1, 2027
- Authorizes the state to suspend or revoke licenses for violations, such as selling to minors
- Imposes fines and other penalties for unlicensed retail sales of nicotine and tobacco products
Affected Parties and Impacts: The bill would impact all retailers selling nicotine and tobacco products in the state, requiring them to obtain a license and comply with the new regulatory requirements. Consumers, particularly youth, may benefit from reduced access to these products through enhanced enforcement.
Procedural and Timeline Considerations: The bill is currently at the bill electronically reproduced stage, indicating it has been formally introduced and is progressing through the legislative process. The next steps would be for the bill to be assigned to a committee for further review and potential amendments before a full legislative vote.
