Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has signed legislation that officially classifies vaping alongside traditional smoking, banning the use of electronic nicotine delivery systems in most enclosed public spaces.
- Effective Date: The new restrictions under SB9 will take effect on October 1.
- Expanded Definition: Vaping is now legally defined as "smoking" under state law.
- Penalty: Violators caught vaping in prohibited areas face a $25 fine.
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey signed a new bill on Wednesday that legally equates vaping with traditional cigarette smoking in public spaces. This legislative update amends the state's 2003 Clean Indoor Air Act, effectively prohibiting the use of electronic nicotine delivery systems in most enclosed public areas to curb secondhand exposure.
Sponsored by Senator Gerald Allen, SB9 was inspired by his personal experiences encountering secondhand vapor at high school and college football stadiums. By adding vaping to the legal definition of smoking, the state ensures consistent enforcement across all enclosed venues.
Starting October 1, vaping will be strictly prohibited in locations previously designated as smoke-free. These enclosed public spaces include:
- Retail stores and shopping malls
- Restaurants and bars
- Government buildings and banks
- Hospitals and nursing homes
- Airports and elevators
Individuals found violating the updated law will be subject to a $25 fine.
While a study published by the National Library of Medicine notes that indoor vaping exposes bystanders to nicotine rather than the toxic combustion products found in secondhand smoke, Alabama lawmakers opted for a blanket restriction to maintain indoor air quality standards.
To honor the lawmakers who championed the state's original indoor air quality initiatives, the legislation also officially renames the existing law to the Vivian Davis Figures and Barbara Drummond Clean Indoor Air Act.
- Read more: Alabama Bill Seeks to Ban Vaping in Public Places
- News source: Vaping now treated like smoking cigarettes under new Alabama law
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