Parallel bills pending in the New York State Assembly and Senate (A 128 and S 1825) would ban characterizing flavors in most tobacco products.

The bills would ban all “characterizing flavors” except for tobacco, mint, wintergreen and menthol.  A “characterizing flavor” is defined as a “distinguisable taste or aroma.”

Characterizing flavors would be prohibited in all products except:  (1) pipe tobacco with a cut width of at least 20 cuts per inch and at least 15% moisture, and (2) hand-made cigars with a wholesale price of at least $2.00 each.

Manufacturers would be subject to a civil penalty of up to $50,000 for violations.

For questions and/or comments, please contact Bryan Haynes, at 804.697.1420 or by email.