California lawmakers advance AB 573 to strengthen flavored tobacco enforcement

The Senate Revenue and Taxation Committee of the California State Senate convened on July 9, 2025, to discuss several key legislative items, including amendments and bills aimed at addressing tobacco sales and enforcement.

The meeting began with a brief opportunity for public comment, which yielded no opposition. The committee then moved to address technical amendments, confirming the acceptance of amendment comment number 9. Following this, a motion was made to pass the amended bill to the Committee on Appropriations, which received unanimous support from the committee members present.

Next, the committee turned its attention to the consent calendar, which included two items: AB 480 by Assembly Member Quirk Silva and AB 1076 by Assembly Member Addis. The motion to adopt the consent calendar was also met with unanimous approval, although it was noted that the consent calendar was on call.

The primary focus of the meeting was on AB 573, presented by Assembly Member Rogers. This bill aims to combat the illegal sale of flavored tobacco products, which currently constitutes about 40% of all tobacco sales in California. The bill proposes to increase the tobacco retail license fee from $256 to a starting point of $450, with the potential to rise to $600. This adjustment is intended to enhance enforcement capabilities of the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA), allowing for proactive enforcement on approximately 30% of retailers, up from the current 11%.

Tim Gibbs, representing the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, supported the bill, highlighting the ongoing accessibility of flavored tobacco products to youth. He noted that a significant percentage of high school students perceive it easy to obtain flavored tobacco, emphasizing the need for legislative action to protect children and ensure fair competition among retailers.

The committee concluded the discussion on AB 573 with a call for support, urging members to vote in favor of the bill to strengthen enforcement against illegal tobacco sales and protect public health.

Overall, the meeting underscored the committee's commitment to addressing tobacco regulation and enforcement, with a focus on safeguarding youth from harmful products. Further actions and votes on the discussed items are anticipated in upcoming sessions.