Bill > H425

This bill establishes comprehensive regulations for tobacco and nicotine product sales in North Carolina, primarily by raising the legal sales age for tobacco products from 18 to 21 years old and implementing a new permitting system for tobacco retailers. The legislation creates a detailed framework for tobacco retail sales, requiring businesses to obtain specific permits from the Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Commission, which will involve strict background checks, age verification requirements, and significant penalties for violations. Retailers must now demand proof of age from prospective purchasers under 30 years old, train employees on age verification and product regulations, and prominently display age restriction signage. The bill introduces substantial administrative penalties for non-compliance, including fines up to $1,000, permit suspensions, and potential revocations. Additionally, the legislation establishes provisions for handling seized tobacco products, creates exceptions for specific research and law enforcement activities, and provides a mechanism for youth education about tobacco's health risks. The bill also makes numerous conforming changes to other sections of North Carolina law to align with these new tobacco regulations, with most provisions becoming effective on May 1, 2026.

Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H425