The proposed bill, titled the "Alternative Nicotine Product Regulatory Act of 2026," aims to establish comprehensive regulations for alternative nicotine products in West Virginia. It introduces new definitions and requirements for manufacturing, labeling, and safety standards to ensure that these products are safe for public consumption. Key provisions include mandates for child-proof caps on e-liquid bottles, tamper-evident packaging, and clear labeling that includes ingredient information and nicotine warnings. The bill also prohibits marketing practices that could appeal to minors, such as using terms associated with candy or popular children's media.

Additionally, the bill empowers the Attorney General to enforce compliance with these regulations and imposes civil penalties for violations, which can reach up to $10,000 per infraction. The collected penalties will be deposited into the newly created Alternative Nicotine Products Compliance Fund, which will be utilized for enforcement purposes. The act is set to take effect 90 days after its passage, reflecting a proactive approach to safeguarding public health and ensuring responsible marketing and distribution of alternative nicotine products.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 16-9H-1, 16-9H-2, 16-9H-3, 16-9H-4, 16-9H-5, 16-9H-6