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Bill

Bill

HB 1183

Relating to county and municipal authority to prohibit the operation of e-cigarette retailers near primary or secondary schools.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Rafael Anchía and 2 co-sponsors

HB 1183 authorizes Texas cities and counties to prohibit e-cigarette retailers near schools, enabling local buffer zones to reduce youth vaping product access.

Referred to Intergovernmental Affairs
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Bill Summary · HB 1183

Legislative bill overview

HB 1183 would grant Texas counties and municipalities the authority to establish local ordinances prohibiting e-cigarette retailers from operating within a specified distance of primary or secondary schools. This enables local governments to create buffer zones around school campuses where vaping product sales would be restricted, without mandating a statewide uniform distance requirement.

Why is this important

E-cigarette use among youth has been a sustained public health concern, with retailers near schools potentially increasing accessibility and normalization of vaping products for minors. Enabling local control allows communities to address this issue based on their specific circumstances while respecting local variation in school density and urban planning. The bill affects retail business operations, local government powers, and youth public health policy.

Potential points of contention

  • Preemption concerns: Texas has historically limited local regulatory authority; this bill expands it, which may conflict with business or state-level deregulation preferences
  • Business impact: E-cigarette retailers and convenience stores may face revenue losses and operational constraints; small businesses may be disproportionately affected depending on school locations
  • Vagueness on specifics: The bill likely leaves distance requirements undefined, potentially leading to inconsistent enforcement across municipalities and legal uncertainty for retailers

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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