SF2871

Purpose of the Bill

The purpose of this bill is to allow the sale of premium cigars from a movable place of business under certain conditions, effectively creating an exception to the current prohibition on selling tobacco products from such businesses.

Main Provisions

• Movable Business Definition: A movable place of business includes any retail business without a permanent physical location, such as kiosks, transportable structures, or vehicles.
• Exception for Premium Cigars: An entity with a distributor license for at least five consecutive years can sell premium cigars from a movable business.
• Demonstrations and Education: These licensees can also perform on-site demonstrations of premium cigar manufacturing and provide cultural education related to cigars.
• Licensing and Taxes: Licensees are not required to obtain a separate license for the movable business, but they must pay all applicable taxes related to their operations.
• Restrictions: The sale of other tobacco products from a movable business is prohibited, focusing strictly on premium cigars.

Significant Changes to Existing Law

This bill amends existing Minnesota statutes by creating a specific exception to the prohibition on selling tobacco products from movable businesses. Previously, these types of sales were not allowed, but this bill introduces a new allowance specifically for premium cigars.

Relevant Terms

• Premium cigars
• Movable place of business
• Tobacco sales
• Cultural education
• Distributor license