Florida Policy & Regulation 

Heated tobacco products (HTPs) and other nicotine alternatives are designed to reduce exposure to harmful toxicants by eliminating combustion—the primary driver of smoking-related disease. Backed by extensive scientific research, engineering, and regulatory submissions, these products represent a fundamentally different risk profile than traditional cigarettes. Yet, public policy has been slow to reflect that distinction.

While Massachusetts leads the nation in fentanyl-related overdose deaths, its legislature has decided that the real threat to public health is… nicotine.

Free market conservatives, including Americans for Tax Reform, are descending on the state capitol, urging lawmakers to keep so-called alternative tobacco (Nicotine) products “tax-free” in Florida.

The company is also expected to unveil the location of its first flagship IQOS store in Florida later this year. IQOS is Philip Morris International’s leading heat-not-burn product designed for adult smokers seeking a smoke-free alternative. The Florida location will serve as a key retail hub as PMI continues expanding its presence in the U.S. market.

Congressional Republicans are rallying behind Zyn, a leading brand of flavored oral nicotine pouches, following Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer’s call for federal agencies to investigate its marketing and health effects.

The legislation represents a significant change in Florida law. For decades, regulation of smoking had been largely preempted to the state, preventing local governments from adopting their own restrictions on smoking in public outdoor spaces. HB 105 creates a limited exception by allowing local governments to adopt ordinances restricting the use of cigarettes and electronic smoking devices at public beaches and parks within their jurisdictions.