SENATE BILL REPORT
SB 5366
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
As of January 29, 2009
Title: An act relating to licensing administration for cigarettes and tobacco products.
Brief Description: Modifying licensing provisions for cigarettes and tobacco products.
Sponsors: Senators Holmquist, Kohl-Welles and Shin; by request of Liquor Control Board.
Brief History:
Committee Activity: Labor, Commerce & Consumer Protection: 1/29/09.
SENATE COMMITTEE ON LABOR, COMMERCE & CONSUMER PROTECTION |
Staff: Ingrid Mungia (786-7423)
Background: Legislation enacted in 1995 requires anyone selling tobacco products to have a Tobacco Wholesaler or Retailer License through the Department of Revenue's Master License System. The license fee for wholesalers is $650 for the first location and $115 for each additional place of business. The license fee for retailers is $93 for each location. A criminal background check is required for a Tobacco Wholesaler License and a Cigarette Wholesaler License.
The Washington State Liquor Control Board's Tobacco Tax Enforcement Unit was formed in June of 1997 to enforce assessment of unpaid tobacco taxes for state collection by the Department of Revenue (DOR). The Tobacco Tax Enforcement Unit ensures that people who sell tobacco in Washington State are properly licensed, have paid the appropriate state taxes, and do not sell tobacco to those under 18 years of age.
Summary of Bill: The Liquor Control Board (Board) is given the administrative authority to approve, deny, suspend, or revoke retail, wholesale, or distributor's applications for a cigarette and tobacco product license. A criminal background check is required for a wholesaler's, retailer's, and distributor's license. The Board may consider any prior criminal conduct of the applicant, including an administrative violation history record with the Board and a criminal history record information check. If the Board makes an initial decision to deny a license or renewal, or suspend or revoke a license, the applicant may request a hearing under the Administrative Procedure Act.
Cigarette and Tobacco licenses must be exhibited in the place of business for which it is issued and in the manner required for the display of a master license under chapter 19.02 RCW.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.
Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.