Alabama Vape Bill Sparks Controversy

The Alabama Legislature is considering a bill targeting underage smoking.

The vape bill – curbing underage smoking or a victory for big tobacco companies?

The bill has unanimous support in the state’s House of Representatives. But it faces difficulties in the Senate. The state’s American Lung Association (ALA) and American Heart Association (AHA) have expressed doubts about the bill’s ability to curb underage smoking. They claim it is nothing more than a victory for “Big Tobacco Company.”

Democratic Sen. Vivian Figures of Alabama says she has no fears about heart disease, lung cancer, or the like. The congressman introduced a similar bill last year but failed to enact it. Now, she has the backing of Democratic Rep. Barbara Drummond, who sponsored HB 65. The bill advocates increasing fines for underage smoking. And, creating annual licenses for vape distributors in Alabama.

They hope the bill will pass the Senate. Then it can be sent to Gov. Kay Ivey nine days before the end of the legislative session.

Jada Shaffer, the senior government relations lead for the AHA in Alabama, opposes the legislation. Because Alabama lawmakers should hold big tobacco companies accountable instead of punishing our youth.

“Unfortunately, Alabama continues to cater to Big Tobacco companies with legislation. It benefits Big Tobacco and harms kids. While pretending to address youth vaping, HB 65 gives Big Tobacco companies the monopoly on selling vapes through an unnecessary nicotine delivery system certification and directory. But further victimizing Alabama’s youth through penalties.”

Penalty to youth who hold vaping products.

The bill would increase penalties for young people between the ages of 18 to 21 who have vapes. The first violation will result in a written warning. And, the second violation will result in eight hours of community service. But the third violation will result in a $100 fine. If the person possessing a vape device is under 18, their parent or legal guardian will be notified.

The state will also implement a licensing system for vape distributors with an annual fee of $150. However, the ALA says the bill effectively repeals state laws that limit the proximity of these stores to K-12 schools.