Bill > SB235

This bill, titled the "Vape and Smoke Shop Location and Operating Requirements Act," aims to regulate vape and smoke shops by establishing specific rules for their locations, operations, and advertising to protect public health and safety, particularly from marketing that might appeal to minors. Key provisions include requiring these shops to be located at least 5,280 feet away from places frequented by children and young adults, such as schools, colleges, parks, and libraries, as well as other vape/smoke shops, places serving alcohol, and residences. The bill also sets strict standards for signage, prohibiting the display of merchandise or images of marijuana, limiting sign size, and restricting the types of signs allowed to prevent them from being distracting or resembling traffic signals. It mandates a permitting process managed by the county health department, which will conduct inspections, investigate violations, and can impose fines ranging from $100 to $500 per day for non-compliance, with established procedures for appeals and enforcement.

Health and Social Services

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=235&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill