By Bob Katzen

This bill Would require any retailer that sells tobacco products to also sell at least one type of nicotine replacement therapy drug or device that has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration for assisting with helping people quit tobacco use.

Violators would be fined $100 for the first offense, $200 for a second offense and $300 for a third or subsequent offense.

Supporters say that this might result in more people buying these drugs or devices to help them stop smoking and ultimately lead to a reduction in smoking. They argue it is important to have these drugs and devices readily available.

Sen. Brendan Crighton (D-Lynn), the sponsor of the measure, did not respond to repeated requests by Beacon Hill Roll Call asking him to comment on his proposal. The same measure filed by Crighton last year was shipped off to a study committee where it died, as do most bills that are sent to a study committee.