Bill > SB464

This bill establishes a new criminal offense for retailers selling cigarettes, e-cigarettes, vaping apparatuses, or tobacco products within 1,000 feet of a public or private primary or secondary school. The bill defines a "vaping apparatus" comprehensively as any battery-operated electronic device designed to deliver aerosolized substances, including e-cigars, vape pens, and their associated components and liquids. If a retailer operates an establishment selling these products within the specified distance from a school, they will commit a Class A misdemeanor. The distance is measured in a direct line across property lines and intersections, with special provisions for multi-story buildings. Upon conviction, the comptroller will revoke the retailer's permit, though the retailer will be allowed to sell remaining inventory to another retailer. The bill does not prevent local governments from implementing additional or more stringent regulations and explicitly does not apply to employees of retailers. The new law is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and aims to reduce the proximity of tobacco and vaping product sales to school environments.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB464