The bill, HB8, amends various sections of the Code of Alabama 1975 to strengthen regulations on the sale and distribution of tobacco and nicotine products, particularly focusing on protecting minors. Key provisions include the prohibition of vending machine sales for tobacco products, the requirement for retailers to obtain a license for selling tobacco and electronic nicotine delivery systems, 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, introduces new definitions such as "Delivery Sale" and "Tobacco Substitute," and mandates retailers to post warning signage about the dangers of tobacco use. It also requires the State Board of Education to create a model vaping awareness program for local education boards to adopt, addressing public health concerns related to vaping among minors.

Significant changes include the introduction of a one-time filing fee of $50 and an annual permit fee of $150 for distributors, as well as the establishment of the Vaping Licensing and Enforcement Fund, which allocates collected fees for operational costs, enforcement, and education. The bill clarifies that any tobacco-related items found in the possession of individuals under 21 are considered contraband and subject to seizure. It also modifies enforcement provisions, allowing individuals under 21 to participate in inspections with parental consent. Additionally, the bill repeals previous provisions that allowed fines for individuals under 21 and raises fines for advertising violations. Overall, HB8 aims to enhance public health initiatives and reduce youth access to tobacco and nicotine products through stricter regulations and enforcement measures.

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