This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to provide specific exemptions for the distribution of tobacco products to individuals aged eighteen to twenty-one. It allows for such distribution when it is part of a scientifically sanctioned, medically supervised program conducted by an institution of higher education, aimed at tobacco cessation and research. The bill stipulates that these activities must be approved by an accredited institutional review board in accordance with federal regulations.

Additionally, the bill maintains penalties for violations of the existing law that prohibits the sale or distribution of tobacco products to individuals under twenty-one. It outlines fines for both individuals and businesses that violate this provision, with increasing penalties for repeated offenses. The bill also includes non-criminal penalties for employees who violate the law while acting as non-management agents, and it allows employers to dismiss employees for such violations if prior notice has been given.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-9A-3