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 they do not include FDA-approved products for nicotine addiction treatment or tobacco cessation. Additionally, the bill repeals the existing forfeiture penalty for retailers who fail to comply with age restrictions and removes the exemption from liability for vending machine operators who unknowingly sell to minors.

The legislation further establishes new requirements for retailers and vending machine operators, including the necessity to ensure that no individuals under the age of 21 are present in areas where these products are sold. It mandates that retailers provide training to employees on compliance with the new age restrictions and outlines penalties for violations. The bill also renumbers and amends various sections of existing law to reflect these changes, including the removal of certain provisions related to the sale of tobacco products to minors. Overall, the bill aims to enhance public health by restricting access to tobacco and nicotine products for younger individuals.

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)