HB72 Alabama 2026 Session

Updated Feb 17, 2026

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Patrick SellersRepresentative
Democrat
Session: 2026 Regular Session
Title: Crimes & offenses; smoking or vaping marijuana in motor vehicle when child is present prohibited, criminal penalties provided, notification of Department of Human Resources required, mandatory reporting if child smells of marijuana required
Summary: HB72 would ban smoking or vaping marijuana in a motor vehicle when a child is present, and add penalties, reporting duties, and public education to reduce children's exposure.
What This Bill Does
It makes it unlawful to smoke or vape marijuana in any motor vehicle with a child under 19 present, regardless of motion or window status. Violators face a Class A misdemeanor and must complete a virtual education course on the dangers of drug use around children. Law enforcement must notify the local county department of human resources about violations. Mandatory reporters must report when a child smells marijuana, and such reports are treated as suspected child abuse or neglect. The Alabama Department of Public Health, with other agencies, must develop free public education materials about the dangers of exposing children to marijuana smoke. The act would become effective on October 1, 2026.

Who It Affects
Children under 19 in motor vehicles, who would be protected from exposure to marijuana smoke and vapor and may be impacted by enforcement and reporting actions.
Adults who smoke or vape marijuana in a vehicle with a child present (potential offenders) and mandatory reporters (e.g., teachers, health professionals) who must report when a child smells marijuana; the latter also participate in mandated reporting and child welfare processes.

Key Provisions
Prohibits smoking or vaping marijuana in a motor vehicle when a child under 19 is present, regardless of whether the vehicle is moving or whether windows are open or closed.
Creates a Class A misdemeanor for violators and requires completion of a virtual education course on the dangers of drug use around children.
Requires law enforcement to notify the local county department of human resources about violations.
Requires mandatory reporters to report when a child smells marijuana; such reports are treated as suspected child abuse or neglect.
directs the Alabama Department of Public Health, with the Department of Mental Health and the Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency, to develop public education materials about the dangers of exposing children to marijuana smoke, available at no cost.
Effective date: October 1, 2026.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 12, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Crimes & Offenses