The proposed bill, H.B. No. 1474, aims to prohibit the retail sale and provision of certain over-the-counter weight loss drugs and dietary supplements to individuals under 18 years of age. It introduces a new Chapter 446 to the Health and Safety Code, which defines key terms such as "dietary supplement," "over-the-counter weight loss drug," and "retailer." The bill outlines specific responsibilities for retailers, including ensuring that these products are not directly accessible to customers and requiring age verification for purchasers who appear to be underage. Additionally, it establishes civil penalties for violations, allowing the attorney general to enforce these provisions.
The bill also includes provisions for remote sales, mandating that sellers use methods that require age verification upon delivery. A civil penalty of up to $500 can be imposed for each violation, and the attorney general is authorized to take legal action to enforce compliance. Importantly, the bill stipulates that compliance with these new regulations will not be required until December 1, 2025, and it will take effect on September 1, 2025.
Statutes affected: Introduced: ()