HB47 Alabama 2018 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Chris PringleRepresentative

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2018

Title

Tobacco, raise the age to purchase, possess, or use to 21 years

Summary

HB 47 would raise Alabama's tobacco age to 21 and create new rules for under-21 access.

What This Bill Does

If passed, the bill makes it illegal for anyone under 21 to buy, use, possess, or transport tobacco products in Alabama. It also clarifies rules for workers under 21 who are employed by tobacco vendors and requires parental notification when a minor is cited for a violation. The law would take effect on the first day of the third month after it is enacted.

Who It Affects

• Minors under 21 would be prohibited from purchasing, using, possessing, or transporting tobacco products in Alabama.
• Tobacco retailers and their employees (including permit holders and supervisors) would need to enforce the 21+ age limit, with under-21 workers allowed to handle or sell tobacco only when supervised by a 21+ employee; parents/guardians would be notified if a minor is cited.

Key Provisions

• Amends Section 28-11-13 to set the minimum age for purchase, use, or possession of tobacco products to 21.
• Outlaws for anyone under 21 to purchase, use, possess, or transport tobacco or alternative nicotine products in Alabama.
• Allows under-21 tobacco employees to handle/transport/sell tobacco only if they are acting within the scope of employment and a 21+ employee or permit holder is present.
• Prohibits under-21 individuals from presenting false identification to obtain tobacco products.
• Requires the citing agency to notify the minor's parent, guardian, or custodian of a violation unless the minor is 19 or older or emancipated.
• Effective date: becomes law on the first day of the third month after passage and governor approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Tobacco