HB 1257 Summary

• Prohibits sale, delivery, or transfer of caffeine pills and powder to persons under 18 years of age, with affirmative defense if seller examined government-issued photographic identification.

• Establishes penalties for violating sellers: first offense $50 fine, second offense $75 fine, subsequent offenses $150 fine, with potential permit suspension or revocation after third violation within one year.

• Prohibits persons under 18 from purchasing caffeine products and from possessing or consuming them on educational property; violations may result in up to 3 hours community service with record expungement upon completion.

• Requires point-of-sale warning signs at least 8.5 by 11 inches stating age restrictions, prohibits vending machine sales except in age-restricted locations, and mandates sealed package distribution only with manufacturer health warnings.

• Authorizes law enforcement to conduct unannounced inspections at least annually using persons under 18 (with parental consent) to test compliance; requires Attorney General to report findings to Legislature annually; protects identity of minors convicted under act.