The bill, designated as HB8, amends various sections of the Code of Alabama 1975 to strengthen regulations surrounding the sale and distribution of tobacco and nicotine products, particularly focusing on electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) and e-liquids. Key provisions include the prohibition of vending machine sales for tobacco products, the requirement for retailers to obtain a license for selling certain tobacco and ENDS, 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 that retailers post warning signage about the dangers of tobacco use. It also repeals certain existing sections of the law while adding new regulations to ensure that vaping products are manufactured in the United States.

Additionally, the bill outlines stricter regulations on advertising tobacco products to minors, increases penalties for violations, and establishes a certification requirement for e-liquid manufacturers. It mandates that all liquid nicotine containers be in child-resistant packaging and requires retailers to use third-party age verification services. The bill also emphasizes the role of the State Board of Education in developing policies to prevent the possession and use of prohibited tobacco and vaping products in public K-12 schools. Overall, HB8 aims to enhance public health protections by tightening regulations around the sale and distribution of tobacco and nicotine products, with a focus on reducing youth access and promoting education and compliance.

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