← Back to search

HRS §328J-18

Where tobacco products can be sold and displayed

Retailers must sell cigarettes and other tobacco products only in a direct, face-to-face exchange with the customer. They cannot use vending machines or self-service displays. Products must be kept behind the counter or in a locked container, unless the store is a duty-free shop or an adult-only establishment.

The statute, as written — Placement of cigarettes and tobacco products

(a) Except as otherwise provided under this section, a retailer may sell cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, and all other tobacco products only in a direct, face-to-face exchange between the retailer and the consumer. Examples of methods of sale that are not permitted include vending machines and self-service displays. (b) A retailer may only display or store cigarettes and tobacco products: (1) Behind a sales counter or in any other area of the establishment that is inaccessible to the public; or (2) In a locked container. (c) This section shall not apply to: (1) A duty-free sales enterprise selling duty-free merchandise in accordance with the provisions of title 19 United States Code section 1555(b), and any implementing regulations; and (2) Retail tobacco stores, bars, or any other establishment for which the minimum age for admission is eighteen.
Read the official text at capitol.hawaii.gov ↗as published Jan 6, 2026our copy taken Aug 20, 2026

LawTrove is not legal advice. The summary above is a computer-generated restatement — the authoritative text is the official version linked above.