The bill amends the Youth Tobacco Act by updating Section 2 to enhance regulations regarding minors' access to tobacco and vapor products. It specifies that minors are prohibited from purchasing, possessing, or using tobacco products and vapor products in public places, as well as from presenting false proof of age for these purposes. The penalties for violations include fines and community service, with the severity of penalties increasing for repeat 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 related to tobacco access enforcement, as well as for those handling tobacco products as part of their employment. Furthermore, it clarifies that violations of these regulations do not preclude individuals from facing additional legal charges. The enactment of this bill is contingent upon the passage of several related bills in the legislature.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 722.642