Brief Description: Prohibiting tobacco product sampling.

Sponsors: Senators Oke, T. Sheldon, Swecker, Thibaudeau, Carlson, Shin, Winsley, Spanel, Kline, Regala, Haugen, Jacobsen, Poulsen, B. Sheldon, Stevens, Keiser, Kohl-Welles and Rasmussen.

Hearing Date: 3/25/03

Staff: Dave Knutson (786-7146).

Background:

A marketing technique used by cigarette makers is the distribution of free samples. The business of sampling is regulated by the Liquor Control Board. Upon payment of an annual fee, a sampler may distribute tobacco samples in authorized areas. These areas include: areas where children under the age of 18 are denied admission, in a store or concession to which a retailer's license has been issued, or at or adjacent to a production, repair, or outdoor construction site or facility. Samplers are prohibited from distributing samples within 500 feet of a playground, school, or other facility being used primarily by persons under 18 years of age.

Summary of Bill:

Distribution of samples of tobacco products to members of the public is prohibited. Various provisions of the laws regulating this practice are deleted or repealed.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Available.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.