Bill > HB3787

This bill establishes new regulations for the sale and distribution of lighters in Texas, focusing on preventing the sale of counterfeit and unsafe lighters. The bill defines a "counterfeit lighter" as an imitation of a brand name lighter that violates intellectual property laws, and an "unsafe lighter" as any disposable, refillable, grill, or utility lighter that does not comply with specific safety standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) as of January 1, 2025. It prohibits the sale, distribution, or offering of such lighters through any means, including free samples and online or in-person sales. The bill provides an exception for interstate transportation and storage of these lighters in closed distribution centers. The state fire marshal is authorized to inspect records and lighters to ensure compliance and adopt rules for implementation. Violators face civil penalties, with manufacturers and wholesale dealers potentially fined up to $100 per lighter (not exceeding $100,000 in a 30-day period), retailers up to $100 per lighter (not exceeding $25,000 in a 30-day period), and other violators up to $1,000 for a first violation and $5,000 for subsequent violations. The attorney general can bring civil actions for injunctive relief, civil penalties, or both. The bill will take effect on September 1, 2025.