This bill proposes to raise the minimum age for purchasing, exchanging, or possessing tobacco, electronic smoking products, and nicotine-containing products in Alaska from 19 to 21 years. It amends existing laws to impose penalties on businesses that sell these products to individuals under 21, classifying such violations as punishable by fines. Additionally, it establishes that possession of these products by individuals under 21 is also a violation, with provisions for educational programs as an alternative to fines. The bill further regulates the sale and distribution of these products, including the operation of vending machines and the responsibilities of licensed vendors in verifying the age of purchasers.

Moreover, the bill introduces a 25% tax on closed electronic smoking products and vapor products, which licensed retailers must collect and remit. It outlines licensing requirements for retailers, including a $50 annual fee, and specifies exemptions for certain products sold in military facilities or approved for medical use. The bill also mandates that shipping of these products must ensure recipients are of legal age and that products are clearly labeled. Additionally, it prohibits marketing practices targeting individuals under 21 and requires businesses to implement written policies against underage sales, including employee training and age verification measures. The effective dates for various provisions are staggered, with some taking effect in 2026 and others in 2027.

Statutes affected:
HB0049A, AM HB 49, introduced 01/22/2025: 11.76.100, 43.70.075, 04.09.200, 04.09.350, 04.09.220, 04.09.230, 11.76.105, 12.55.035, 11.76.106, 11.76.109, 43.50.010, 11.81.900, 29.35.085, 47.12.030, 29.25.070, 37.05.580, 44.29.020, 43.50.070, 11.76.107, 44.62.350, 43.50.180, 43.50.300, 43.50.390, 43.50.850, 43.50.900, 43.50.105, U.S.C, 43.50.150, 43.50.190, 43.50.090, 03.05.076, 17.38.900, 43.50.860, 43.50.865, 43.50.870, 43.50.875, 43.50.880, 43.50.885, 43.50.990, 44.64.010, 44.64.060, 45.50.471, 12.55.055, 04.16.050
HB0049B, AM CSHB 49(L&C), introduced 02/19/2025: 11.76.100, 43.70.075, 04.09.200, 04.09.350, 04.09.220, 04.09.230, 11.76.105, 12.55.035, 11.76.106, 11.76.109, 43.50.010, 11.81.900, 29.35.085, 47.12.030, 29.25.070, 37.05.580, 44.29.020, 43.50.070, 11.76.107, 44.62.350, 43.50.180, 43.50.300, 43.50.390, 43.50.850, 43.50.900, 43.50.105, U.S.C, 43.50.150, 43.50.190, 43.50.090, 03.05.076, 17.38.900, 43.50.860, 43.50.865, 43.50.870, 43.50.875, 43.50.880, 43.50.885, 43.50.990, 44.64.010, 44.64.060, 45.50.471, 12.55.055, 04.16.050