Ulster County committee approves local law requiring ID checks and signage for tobacco and vaping sales

The Rules, Laws, and Government Services Committee on July 9 adopted proposed Local Law No. 9 of 2026 to expand Ulster County's definition of tobacco products and require licensed tobacco retailers to verify a buyer's age and post signage.

Chair Levine read the local law, saying it "add[ed] herbal cigarettes, liquid nicotine, shisha, electronic cigarettes to the definition of tobacco products" and would require retailers to sell those products only to customers who "have provided proper age verification." The bill was submitted by the county executive's office at the request of the Department of Health, and the chair noted a public hearing in June produced no speakers.

Legislator Nolan moved adoption; Legislator Murray seconded. With no further discussion, the committee approved the local law unanimously.

Supporters said the change brings vaping and newer nicotine products under the county's retail oversight and clarifies retailer responsibilities for age verification and signage.