Butler County Today

The House Criminal Justice Committee has taken a significant step towards preventing the sale of tobacco and vaping products to minors. House Bill 258, which addresses this issue, was passed by the committee today. State Representative Sara Carruthers (R-Hamilton) made the announcement regarding the legislation.

The bill focuses on two key measures. Firstly, it increases fines for tobacco retailers who repeatedly sell these products to minors. This sends a clear message that such actions will not be tolerated. Secondly, the bill makes repeat offenders subject to public nuisance. By doing so, it aims to deter retailers from engaging in this unlawful behavior.

Representative Carruthers emphasizes the need for stronger penalties for repeat offenders, as it will help protect Ohio's younger population from the harmful effects of tobacco and vaping products. She states, "Tobacco retailers that continuously sell tobacco and vaping products should be penalized for breaking the law. The negligence of some retailers has directly led to an increase in the use of these products by students, and it is only getting worse."

The passing of House Bill 258 by the House Criminal Justice Committee marks a significant milestone in addressing the issue of underage tobacco and vaping product usage. The legislation now awaits a vote on the House floor, where it will be discussed further and potentially enacted as law.

To find out more, go to this link: https://ohiohouse.gov/members/sara-p-carruthers/news/house-committee-passes-legislation-preventing-the-sale-of-tobacco-and-vaping-products-to-minors-117725