Bill > HB5024

This bill, named the Nicotine Access Protection Act, updates and expands the definitions of "cigarette" and "tobacco product" in the Texas Health and Safety Code. The bill provides a more comprehensive definition of "cigarette" that includes not just traditional tobacco rolls, but also products that appear to be cigarettes, contain tobacco, herbs, or hemp, and are likely to be purchased as cigarettes. The definition of "tobacco product" is broadened to include any product made from or containing nicotine, including synthetically derived nicotine, and encompasses components and accessories of such products. The bill also modifies existing regulations to clarify exceptions, such as FDA-approved products for nicotine addiction treatment and certain food, drug, or device products with minimal or no nicotine. Additionally, the bill updates references in multiple sections of the Health and Safety Code to point to the new definitions in Section 161.081, replacing previous references to tax code definitions. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, providing a clear timeline for implementation of these updated regulations.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB5024