SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 5745

                    As of February 21, 1995

Title:  An act relating to prohibiting sales of cigarettes or other tobacco products treated to produce faster, nonself‑extinguishing burns.

Brief Description:  Prohibiting sales of cigarettes or tobacco products using accelerants.

Sponsors:  Senators Heavey, Oke and Pelz.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Health & Long-Term Care:  2/21/95.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON HEALTH & LONG-TERM CARE

Staff:  Don Sloma (786-7319)

Background:  The State Fire Marshal reports that cigarette ignition is among the most common causes of residential fires in our state. 

Cigarette manufacturers routinely add substances to cigarettes to facilitate burning, and to avoid self extinquishing if a cigarette is left in an ashtray while lit.

Fire officials explain that if such cigarettes or their ashes fall on other flammable materials, the burn accelerant helps to keep the cigarette lit long enough to start a fire.

Some argue that if burn accelerants were not added to cigarettes, many house fires and their related fatalities could be prevented.

Summary of Bill:  Cigarettes or other tobacco products that are treated with a substance that makes them burn faster or in a nonself-extinguishing fashion may not be sold. 

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Requested on February 17, 1995.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.