The bill amends the Youth Tobacco Act of 1915 by updating Section 2 to enhance regulations regarding minors' access to tobacco and vapor products. It prohibits minors from purchasing, possessing, or using tobacco and vapor products in public places, as well as from presenting false proof of age for these purposes. Violations of these provisions are classified as misdemeanors, with penalties including fines and community service requirements that escalate with repeated offenses. Additionally, the bill allows for participation in health promotion and risk reduction assessment programs as part of the penalties.

The bill also introduces specific exceptions for minors involved in undercover operations or compliance checks under the direction of law enforcement or approved agencies, as well as for those handling tobacco products as part of their employment. Furthermore, it clarifies that the new regulations do not apply after the effective date of the amendatory act, which is contingent upon the enactment of several related bills from the 103rd Legislature.

Statutes affected:
Senate Introduced Bill: 722.642