New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Assembly Bill A06444

Introduced
3/5/25  
Refer
3/5/25  

Caption

Enacts the tobacco product waste reduction act prohibiting the sale or offering for sale of cigarettes utilizing single-use filters and single-use electronic cigarettes.

Summary

Bill A06444, known as the Tobacco Product Waste Reduction Act, aims to amend the public health law by prohibiting the sale of cigarettes that utilize single-use filters and single-use electronic cigarettes in New York State. The bill highlights the public health risks associated with tobacco products, including their contribution to preventable deaths and significant healthcare costs. It emphasizes the environmental impact of tobacco product waste, particularly cigarette butts, which are a major source of pollution and pose health risks to children due to potential poisoning from discarded products.

Impact

If enacted, this bill will significantly alter the landscape of tobacco product sales in New York by banning specific products that are currently legal. It will affect tobacco dealers and retailers, imposing civil penalties for violations. The legislation aims to reduce both public health risks associated with tobacco use and the environmental damage caused by tobacco waste, potentially leading to cleaner public spaces and improved health outcomes for the population.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding Bill A06444 appears to be largely supportive among public health advocates and environmental groups, who view it as a necessary step in combating tobacco-related health issues and pollution. However, there may be opposition from tobacco industry stakeholders and retailers concerned about the economic impact of such a ban on their businesses.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between public health initiatives and the rights of consumers and businesses. Opponents may argue that the ban on single-use filters and electronic cigarettes could infringe on personal choice and economic freedom, while proponents emphasize the urgent need to address the public health crisis and environmental concerns associated with tobacco waste.

Companion Bills

NY S02223

Same As Enacts the tobacco product waste reduction act prohibiting the sale or offering for sale of cigarettes utilizing single-use filters and single-use electronic cigarettes.

Previously Filed As

NY S03063

Enacts the tobacco product waste reduction act prohibiting the sale or offering for sale of cigarettes utilizing single-use filters and single-use electronic cigarettes.

NY S02223

Enacts the tobacco product waste reduction act prohibiting the sale or offering for sale of cigarettes utilizing single-use filters and single-use electronic cigarettes.

NY SB1182

Relating to the sale or transfer of flavored cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and tobacco products and to certain cigarette or tobacco product advertising.

NY HB2382

Concerning excise taxes on cigarettes, vapor products, and tobacco products.

NY HB484

Relating to the use of cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and tobacco products on the campus of a public institution of higher education.

NY HB5024

Relating to the regulation of cigarettes and tobacco products, including the definitions of cigarettes and tobacco products.

NY HB1192

To Prohibit The Possession Of Tobacco, Tobacco Products, And E-cigarettes By Students; And To Require The Parent Of A Student Who Uses, Possesses, Or Smokes Tobacco, Tobacco Products, Or E-cigarettes To Pay A Fine.

NY SB1315

Relating to county and municipal authority to prohibit the sale of cigarettes, e-cigarettes, or tobacco products near certain locations.

NY HB3965

Relating to county and municipal authority to prohibit the sale of cigarettes, e-cigarettes, or tobacco products near certain locations.

NY HB290

Increasing the taxes on cigarettes and electronic cigarettes and establishing a committee to study taxes on tobacco and other nicotine products.

Similar Bills

WV SB130

Creating E-cigarette and E-cigarette Liquid Directory

WV SB93

Creating E-cigarette and E-cigarette Liquid Directory

KS SB355

Regulating the manufacture, wholesale and distribution of electronic cigarettes in this state and establishing licensure of electronic cigarette manufacturers.

NJ A1748

Requires school districts to provide instruction on dangers of electronic cigarette usage as part of New Jersey Student Learning Standards in Comprehensive Health and Physical Education.

NV AB536

Revises provisions relating to tobacco. (BDR 32-1098)

WI AB511

The cigarette excise tax and cigarettes that involve heating tobacco without combustion. (FE)

WI SB544

The cigarette excise tax and cigarettes that involve heating tobacco without combustion. (FE)

NJ A3722

Provides phased-in increases in cigarette tax rate over four-year period.