2026 Regular Session
HB 4147
Make underage tobacco possession unlawful
In Committee
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Sign in to take action- Introduced
- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill makes it illegal for anyone under 21 years old in West Virginia to possess or use tobacco products. Violations will result in fines ranging from $50 to $200, and community service hours ranging from 8 to 24 hours, depending on the number of prior offenses. The bill also includes an exception for individuals assisting in tobacco compliance inspections. It establishes misdemeanor penalties for these violations.
Key provisions
- It is unlawful for individuals under 21 to possess tobacco products.
- First offense: $50 fine and 8 hours of community service.
- Second offense: $100 fine and 16 hours of community service.
- Third offense and subsequent offenses: $200 fine and 24 hours of community service.
- Magistrate courts have concurrent jurisdiction.
- Exception for individuals assisting in tobacco compliance inspections.
Who is affected
- Individuals under 21 years of age
- Tobacco retailers
- Law enforcement
Notable changes
- Establishes specific fines and community service requirements for underage tobacco possession.
- Creates a concurrent jurisdiction for magistrate courts.
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