House

Bill 498
2016 Freedom Index Score (-2)
Analyst: Lindsay Russell Dexter
Date: February 24, 2016

ANALYSTS NOTE: House Bill 498 will regulate the sale, licensing and distribution of electronic cigarettes.
In Idaho Code, Section 5702, Title 39, electronic cigarettes are defined as any device that can provide an
inhaled dose of nicotine by delivering a vaporized solution.

Point No. 1: Does it create, expand, or enlarge any agency, board, program, function, or activity of
government? Conversely, does it eliminate or curtail the size or scope of government?

ANALYSIS: House Bill 498 expands the Idaho Department of Health and Welfares authority over
the selling, licensing, and distribution of electronic cigarettes. (-1)

Point No. 3: Does it give government any new, additional, or expanded power to prohibit, restrict, or
regulate activities in the free market? Conversely, does it eliminate or reduce government intervention in
the market?

ANALYSIS: Senate Bill 498 gives the Department of Health and Welfare a new, additional, and
expanded power to regulate electronic cigarettes. (-1)