Assembly Bill 524 proposes significant changes to the legal age for the sale, purchase, and possession of cigarettes, nicotine products, and electronic vaping devices in Wisconsin, raising the minimum age from 18 to 21. The bill also amends the definition of electronic vaping devices to clarify that it excludes drugs or devices authorized by the FDA for treating nicotine addiction or tobacco cessation. Additionally, the bill repeals the existing forfeiture penalty for retailers who violate age restrictions and removes the exemption from liability for vending machine operators who unknowingly sell to minors.

The bill outlines various provisions to enforce these age restrictions, including prohibiting the sale of cigarettes, nicotine products, and electronic vaping devices to individuals under 21, and requiring retailers to post notices about these laws. It also mandates that retailers provide training to employees on compliance with these regulations. The penalties for violations are adjusted, with increased durations for suspensions based on the number of previous violations. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen regulations surrounding tobacco and nicotine product sales to minors, thereby promoting public health.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 134.65(1a)(b), 134.65, 134.66(title), 134.66, 134.66(1)(g), 134.66(2m)(a), 134.66(4)(b), 139.30(10), 139.30, 139.345(3)(a)(intro.), 139.345, 139.345(3)(b)2, 139.345(7)(a)