summary
Introduced
01/21/2026
01/21/2026
In Committee
02/04/2026
02/04/2026
Crossed Over
02/03/2026
02/03/2026
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
A BILL to amend and reenact §16-9A-3 of the Code of West Virginia, 1931, as amended, relating to medical cessation treatment and research; providing exemptions for distribution to individuals between the ages of eighteen and twenty-one for the purpose of tobacco cessation and/or research in a sanctioned medically supervised program by an institution of higher education.
AI Summary
This bill amends West Virginia law to create an exemption to the prohibition of selling or giving tobacco products to individuals under 21 years of age. Specifically, it allows for the distribution of tobacco products to individuals between 18 and 21 years old if it is part of a sanctioned, medically supervised program conducted by an institution of higher education for the purpose of tobacco cessation or research, provided that such research has been approved by an institutional review board. The existing law, §16-9A-3, generally prohibits the sale or gift of tobacco products to anyone under 21 and outlines penalties for violations, including fines and potential dismissal for employees. This amendment carves out a specific exception for legitimate research and cessation efforts conducted by universities.
Committee Categories
Health and Social Services
Sponsors (7)
James Akers (R)*,
Michael Amos (R),
Geno Chiarelli (R),
Mike Hite (R),
David McCormick (R),
Matthew Rohrbach (R),
Evan Worrell (R),
Last Action
To Health and Human Resources (on 02/04/2026)
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