SB255 Alabama 2013 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Cam Ward

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2013

Title

Tobacco products, sale, use, possession and transportation by a minor prohibited, notification to parent, Secs. 28-11-2, 28-11-13 am'd.

Summary

SB255 would extend Alabama's ban on minors using and buying nicotine products to include alternative nicotine products like electronic cigarettes.

What This Bill Does

If passed, it would make it illegal for anyone under 19 to purchase, use, possess, or transport alternative nicotine products (such as electronic cigarettes) in addition to tobacco products. It defines what counts as an alternative nicotine product and explains who can handle or sell these items, including rules for identification. Minor employees of tobacco or nicotine product permit holders may handle or sell these products only while performing their job and with a supervisor who is 21 or older nearby. The law would take effect on the first day of the third month after it becomes law.

Who It Affects

• Minors under 19 would be prohibited from buying, using, possessing, or transporting tobacco, tobacco products, and alternative nicotine products in Alabama.
• Retailers, distributors, and tobacco or nicotine product permit holders must comply with the ban; their minor employees may handle or transport products only if performing within their job duties and under supervision.

Key Provisions

• Adds 'alternative nicotine product' to the prohibited category for minors, covering products like electronic cigarettes and other nicotine-containing items.
• Defines 'alternative nicotine product' and lists exclusions, such as traditional tobacco products and certain drugs or devices under federal law.
• Redefines 'minor' as any person under 19 years old.
• Prohibits minors from purchasing, using, possessing, or transporting tobacco, tobacco products, or alternative nicotine products within the state.
• Allows minor employees of permit holders to handle, transport, or sell these products only in the line and scope of employment and with a supervisor age 21 or older present.
• Sets the effective date to the first day of the third month after the act becomes law.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 25, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Tobacco