Bill Description: This bill would impose a $100 permit fee on any business that sells tobacco.

Rating: -3

Does it increase barriers to entry into the market? Examples include occupational licensure, the minimum wage, and restrictions on home businesses. Conversely, does it remove barriers to entry into the market? 


Though businesses are required to obtain a permit to sell tobacco, there no cost is currently imposed. This bill would institute a new $100 fee. This new fee would increase business costs for retail establishments such as convenience stores, gas stations, grocery stores, and many others.

(-1)

Does it increase government spending (for objectionable purposes) or debt? Conversely, does it decrease government spending or debt? 


The new revenue from this permitting fee would go into the state coffers for the operation of anti-tobacco campaigns. This could mean an increase of more than $150,000 in total state spending each year (there were more than 1,590 permits issued in 2017). However, this would be added even as the state distributed roughly $3,000,000 from the Millenium Fund towards anti-tobacco campaigns run by different organizations across the state.

(-1)

Does it directly or indirectly create or increase any taxes, fees, or other assessments? Conversely, does it eliminate or reduce any taxes, fees, or other assessments? 


HB 341 would impose a $100 fee for any store wishing to sell tobacco.

(-1)