Specifically, this measure raises the minimum age of a person to whom cigarettes, tobacco products, and nicotine products may be sold from 18 years of age to 21 years of age. In addition to raising the minimum age from 18 years of age to 21 years of age, the measure also repeals the criminal penalty for purchasing or attempting to purchase the products as a minor. A retailer shall require an individual who seeks to purchase tobacco products and who appears to be over fifty years of age to present to the retailer a valid government issued photographic identification at the time of purchase.
The bill also prohibits a retailer from permitting a person under 18 years of age to sell or participate in the sale of products. However, an employee who is 18, 19, or 20 years of age may handle the products. It also increases the minimum number of compliance checks required of each retail location at which the products are sold to 2 per year or at least the minimum number annually required by federal regulation, whichever number is greater. Additionally, the bill requires rule-making regarding a requirement that the liquor enforcement division in the department of revenue coordinate with local licensing authorities on performing compliance checks and addressing complaints about retailers.
This measure has been sent to Governor Jared Polis (D).
Since the Legislature has adjourned sine die, the Governor has 30 days to sign or veto this measure. If the Governor does not sign this measure, this measure will be enacted without a signature. If the Governor vetoes this measure, this measure will likely not receive further consideration.