The bill, H.B. No. 5053, aims to prohibit the marketing, advertising, or selling of certain e-cigarette products that are designed to appeal to minors. It amends Section 161.0876(b) of the Health and Safety Code to establish that a person commits an offense if they market or sell e-cigarette products that meet specific criteria. These criteria include products that depict cartoon-like characters aimed at minors, imitate trademarks primarily marketed to minors, include symbols used to market to minors, feature images of celebrities, resemble food products, or are disguised as alternative products such as school supplies, smart devices, clothing, cosmetics, toys, or are manufactured in China.

The bill also clarifies that the changes in law will only apply to offenses committed on or after its effective date of September 1, 2025, ensuring that any offenses occurring before this date will be governed by the previous law. This provision allows for a smooth transition and ensures that individuals are not penalized under new regulations for actions taken prior to the law's enactment.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 161.0876 (Health and Safety Code 161)