This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to establish penalties for adults who purchase tobacco products for individuals under 21 years of age. It prohibits the sale, gift, or furnishing of any tobacco product to anyone younger than 21, requiring verification through valid identification. The bill outlines specific fines for violations, with the first offense resulting in a $250 fine, escalating for subsequent offenses within specified time frames. Additionally, it introduces non-criminal, non-monetary penalties for employees acting as non-management agents who violate this law, which may include education classes and community service.

New provisions in the bill impose stricter penalties on individuals who violate the tobacco purchasing restrictions, with fines increasing to $500 for the first offense, $1,500 for the second, and $2,500 for third or subsequent offenses, along with possible jail time. The bill also allows employers to dismiss employees who sell tobacco products to minors, provided they have given prior written notice of the potential consequences. Overall, the legislation aims to strengthen regulations surrounding tobacco sales to minors and enhance accountability for both sellers and purchasers.

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