ATR Supports Missouri Bill Preventing Rogue Rule-Making By Local Governments

On May 9, ATR submitted testimony to Republicans in the Missouri Senate, urging them to support Senate Bill 231. This bill prevents bureaucrats at the local/municipal level from attempting to dictate the sale of tobacco, nicotine, vapor products, etc. that are otherwise regulated by the state. Local rules regarding the sale of these products can have serious public health and fiscal implications that demand greater oversight and careful deliberation.  

Maintaining fiscal responsibility and transparency are crucial for a well-functioning state government. It is the state’s obligation to oversee the rules regarding the sale of nicotine/tobacco products and carefully assess their budgetary impacts. It’s also an issue of public health: Local laws and regulations that attack the use of safer alternatives to combustible tobacco like vaporized nicotine or pouches, even if well-intentioned, would have large and negative consequences by driving people toward cigarettes and other combustible tobacco products.  

“Senate Bill 231 would protect consumers and businesses across Missouri, ensure tax collections are not depressed by misguided local taxes and regulations, and would prevent a patchwork of ordinances that would make the state a more expensive place to do business, all while damaging public health,” warned ATR Director of Consumer Issues Tim Andrews, “It is imperative for state lawmakers to use their power to safeguard their constituents from harmful policies.” 

Especially in times of economic uncertainty, it is imperative that states like Missouri exercise care when making decisions that might impact tax revenues, business incentives, and the health of their people. SB 231 constitutes a step in the right direction.  
 
You can read the full testimony here.