Mary Ellen Peppard

Legislation endorsed by the Senate health committee would impact retailers such as supermarkets that have pharmacies, as well as stand-alone pharmacies.

The fee would raise $23.4 million a year -- a nickel at a time, on carryout plastic and paper bags. The money would be diverted to balance the state budget.

Menthol cigarettes account for 35% to 40% of sales in New Jersey. A lawmaker says they're marketed toward black men and promote nicotine addiction.