January 1 Is Deadline for ‘Fire Safe’ Cigarettes in Texas

As of Jan. 1, 2010, all cigarettes sold in Texas must be certified fire standard compliant (FSC), the Texas Department of Insurance and the State Fire Marshal’s Office announced.

All FSC cigarettes will be marked near the Universal Product Code (UPC) with the letters FSC. Any manufacturer, wholesaler/distributor, or retailer who knowingly sells or offers for sale non-FSC cigarettes may be subject to a fine of up to $100 per pack.

Fire standard compliant – or “fire safe” – cigarettes are designed to self-extinguish if they are left unattended or not actively being smoked.

Texas is among 49 states where FSC legislation is either effective or has passed legislation. Wyoming filed FSC legislation in 2009, but it has not yet passed. The State Fire Marshal’s Office, which is a part of the Texas Department of Insurance, is responsible for all FSC cigarettes certifications, inspections, and enforcement in Texas.

For more information about fire-safe cigarettes, visit the agency website at http://www.tdi.state.tx.us/fire/fmfiresafecig.html.

Source: Texas Department of Insurance

Topics Texas Legislation