R Street Testimony in Opposition to HI HB 1563, “Relating to Tobacco Products” - R Street Institute
The R Street Institute opposes HI HB 1563, arguing it would hinder public health by restricting access to lower-risk tobacco alternatives.Summary
The R Street Institute submitted testimony opposing Hawaii House Bill 1563, which would repeal a state law preventing local tobacco ordinances stricter than state regulations. Steven Greenhut, Western Region Director, argues the bill would allow bans on flavored tobacco products, limiting access to reduced-risk alternatives like e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches. This, he contends, would be counterproductive to public health, as it restricts options for smokers seeking to reduce harm and may lead to increased cigarette smoking, citing examples like San Francisco. The Institute supports enforcing existing laws against underage vaping while allowing adults access to lower-risk products, emphasizing that flavors are not the primary driver of youth vaping and can aid adult smokers in quitting combustible cigarettes.
(Source：R Street Institute)
