The bill HB8 amends various sections of the Code of Alabama 1975 to enhance the regulation of tobacco and electronic nicotine delivery systems, particularly focusing on protecting youth under 21 years of age. Key provisions include the prohibition of tobacco product sales through vending machines, the requirement for retailers to obtain licenses for selling tobacco and nicotine products, and the establishment of a Tobacco Licensing and Compliance Fund. The bill raises the minimum age for purchasing tobacco products from 19 to 21 years and introduces new definitions, such as "Delivery Sale" and "Electronic Nicotine Delivery System." It also repeals outdated sections of the law, specifically Sections 28-11-15 and 28-11-19, to streamline regulations.

Additionally, the bill introduces new permit requirements for the distribution of tobacco and nicotine products, including a one-time filing fee and an annual renewal fee. It emphasizes the importance of providing prevention materials to retailers and modifies enforcement provisions to allow individuals under 21 to participate in inspections with parental consent. The bill establishes the Vaping Licensing and Enforcement Fund to support operational costs for enforcement and educational programs. It also outlines stricter advertising regulations to prevent marketing that appeals to minors and mandates that retailers verify the age of patrons. Overall, HB8 aims to strengthen public health protections related to tobacco and nicotine product sales in Alabama.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 28-11-2, 28-11-3, 28-11-5, 28-11-6, 28-11-6, 28-11-7, 28-11-9, 28-11-10, 28-11-12, 28-11-14, 28-11-16, 28-11-17, 28-11-18
Engrossed: 28-11-2, 28-11-3, 28-11-5, 28-11-6, 28-11-6, 28-11-7, 28-11-9, 28-11-10, 28-11-12, 28-11-14, 28-11-16, 28-11-17, 28-11-18
Enrolled: 28-11-2, 28-11-3, 28-11-5, 28-11-6, 28-11-6, 28-11-7, 28-11-9, 28-11-10, 28-11-12, 28-11-14, 28-11-16, 28-11-17, 28-11-18