House panel approves temporary cigar-sales permit for retailers

The Indiana House Public Policy Committee on Thursday approved House Bill 1468, a measure to allow holders of tobacco sales certificates to obtain a supplemental cigar sales certificate that permits temporary cigar sales at events and functions.

Representative Kyle Miller, the bill’s author, told the committee the measure would let a tobacco retailer sell cigars outside the footprint of its normal permit — for example, at a block party in front of the shop — by obtaining a temporary certificate and notifying the Alcohol and Tobacco Commission at least five days before the event. Miller said the measure also “put some guardrails in place” to require compliance with state smoking laws and any city, town or county smoking ordinances.

Under the bill, the supplemental certificate would be valid for three years and may be used for any number of events during that period so long as the permit holder provides the required notice. The committee adopted an amendment increasing the three‑year fee from $100 to $300 before voting.

There were no registered opponents or public commentators signed up in committee. Representative Peggy Mayfield asked whether the permit allowed unlimited uses during the three-year term; Miller confirmed that it does so long as the permit holder provides the required notice to ATC.

After brief discussion the committee voted on a motion to “pass, as amended.” Representative Heath Van Adder moved the motion; Representative Corey Criswell seconded it. The roll call recorded 12 votes in favor, none opposed; Representative Summers was excused. The committee clerk recorded the outcome as a do-pass-amend recommendation.

The bill now moves from the Public Policy Committee with the committee’s recommendation.