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 youth. 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 and introduces new definitions, such as "Delivery Sale" and "Electronic Nicotine Delivery System." It also repeals certain existing sections of the law and mandates that retailers post warning signage about the dangers of tobacco use.

Significant changes include the introduction of new permit requirements for the distribution of tobacco and nicotine products, allowing for the transfer of permits under specific conditions, and establishing the Vaping Licensing and Enforcement Fund to support enforcement and education initiatives. The bill emphasizes the importance of prevention materials for retailers and outlines stricter regulations for individuals under 21 regarding the purchase and possession of tobacco products. Additionally, it mandates that e-liquid manufacturers certify compliance with federal regulations and requires child-resistant packaging for liquid nicotine containers. Overall, HB8 aims to enhance public health protections related to tobacco use and sales, particularly for youth, through comprehensive regulatory 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