SB0149: Tobacco.

Legislative Summary

Tobacco. Prohibits a retail establishment from holding more than one active tobacco sales certificate (certificate) for a retail location at any time. Prohibits the alcohol and tobacco commission (commission) from issuing a certificate to certain persons. Provides that, if a majority interest in a business that holds a certificate is sold or transferred: (1) the new ownership must apply for a new certificate; and (2) the certificate and permit number held by the previous ownership are void 90 days after the sale or transfer of the ownership of the business. Specifies that an employee of a certificate holder (employee) must hold a valid: (1) driver's license issued by the state of Indiana or another state; or (2) identification card issued by the state of Indiana, another state, or the United States; to sell tobacco products. Requires an employee to have the driver's license, identification card, or a copy of these documents readily available to show an excise officer or law enforcement when selling tobacco products. Allows an employee who is unable to show these documents to provide certain evidence within five days. Permits the commission to impose a civil penalty on the certificate holder if an employee fails to timely produce this evidence. Provides that a person who recklessly, knowingly, or intentionally sells a tobacco product without a valid certificate commits a Class C infraction. Makes it a Class C misdemeanor for a person to operate a tobacco and vaping business within 1,000 feet of school property. Specifies exceptions.