Ulster committee sets June public hearing on local law requiring ID for tobacco and vaping sales

The Ulster County Health, Human Services and Human Rights Committee voted on May 7 to set a public hearing for Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at 7:10 p.m. on proposed Local Law No. 9 of 2026, which would amend Chapter 301, Article 2 of the Ulster County Code to add herbal cigarettes, liquid nicotine, electronic cigarettes and other tobacco products to the county's regulated list and require licensed tobacco retailers to verify age and post signage.

Director Walters explained the change was requested by the county Board of Health because state law language on sales to minors is written "in a very vague way," which she said hinders enforcement. Walters said the proposed county requirement that retailers ask for proof of age "no matter what" is intended to close that enforcement gap and make it easier for county inspectors to pursue violations discovered through sting operations.

The committee discussed the age standard and confirmed the law would defer to the New York State age standard so the county requirement would move with any change at the state level. Legislator Clinton and others supported the measure as timely given concerns about youth access and flavored products; the committee approved the resolution to set the hearing.

What happens next: The committee set the hearing date and time; the public hearing will allow testimony before the Legislature advances, modifies or declines to adopt the local law. Director Walters and county enforcement staff described planned signage and enforcement as tools to deter underage sales.

Ending: The hearing on Local Law No. 9 of 2026 is scheduled for June 16, 2026, at 7:10 p.m.; the committee made no final determination on the ordinance's text beyond the items summarized at the meeting.