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WV HB4629
Bill
Status
Engrossed
2/3/2026
Primary Sponsor
James Akers
Click for details
AI Summary
- Creates an exemption to West Virginia's tobacco sales prohibition for persons ages 18-21 when tobacco products are distributed as part of scientific research conducted by institutions of higher education
- Research must focus on cigarette and tobacco use prevention, cessation efforts, or tobacco product regulation
- Requires the medical research to be approved by a properly accredited institutional review board pursuant to federal regulations
- Maintains existing penalties for illegal tobacco sales to minors: $250 fine for first offense, escalating to $2,000-$5,000 for subsequent offenses within five years
- Preserves non-criminal, non-monetary penalties (education classes, diversion programs, community service) for non-management retail employees who violate the law
Legislative Description
Relating to medical cessation treatment and research
Health
Last Action
To Health and Human Resources
2/4/2026
Committee Referrals
Health and Human Resources2/4/2026
Health & Human Resources1/21/2026
Full Bill Text
No bill text available