New Act

WHAT DOES IT DO ?

Makes it unlawful to sell, furnish, give, distribute, purchase, or provide a tobacco product to a minor under the age of 18 years old.
makes it unlawful to sell a tobacco product to an individual who does not present proof of age upon demand.
Makes it unlawful to sell a tobacco product through a vending machine, unless it is either (a) located in an establishment which is only open to individuals whoa re 18 or older, or (b) where the vending machine is under continuous control by the owner/licensee of the premises.
Make it unlawful for a minor under the age of 18 to purchase, possess, or attempt to possess a tobacco product OR present false proof of age in order to purchase a tobacco product.

Enforcement for those who sell to minors under age 18

Enforcement for minor under age 18 in violation

All offenses are misdemeanors
Violators first offense, $100 fine
Second offense occurring within three years of the first, $200 fine
Third of subsequent offense occurring within three years of the first, $300 fine
May be required to attend a DAODAS approved Merchant Education program in lieu of fine

All offenses are civil fines
violators are subject to a $25 fine
may complete a DHEC approved prevention of cessation program or complete 5 hours of community service in lieu of fine.
A listing of approved programs is available on the Division of Tobacco Prevention and Control's web page, www.scdhec.net/tobacco
Does not affect participation in state college of university financial assistance programs
Jurisdiction to hear a violation is vested in municipal of magistrate's court and is placed on docket for traffic violations.
Law enforcement officers may issue uniform traffic tickets for violations for this law