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SB 1317

Relating to limitations on the age of individuals allowed to enter the premises of a smoke shop; creating a criminal offense.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Paul Bettencourt and 5 co-sponsors

SB 1317 restricts age-based access to Texas smoke shops and criminalizes violations, shifting enforcement burden to business owners with unspecified age thresholds and verification requirements.

Co-author authorized
#minors--health&safety(i0533) #tobaccoproducts(i0818)
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Bill Summary · SB 1317

Legislative bill overview

SB 1317 establishes age restrictions on who can enter smoke shop premises in Texas and creates criminal penalties for violations. The bill appears to limit access to these retail establishments based on age thresholds, though specific age requirements and enforcement mechanisms are not detailed in the available information.

Why is this important

Smoke shops currently operate with minimal federal restrictions on customer access, creating potential public health concerns regarding youth exposure to tobacco and nicotine products. This bill would create a state-level regulatory framework with criminal consequences, shifting enforcement responsibility to shop owners and local authorities.

Potential points of contention

  • Age threshold ambiguity: The specific age limit (18, 21, or another threshold) significantly impacts who is restricted and the rationale for the policy
  • Business compliance burden: Smoke shop owners would face new verification requirements and criminal liability for violations, raising concerns about enforcement feasibility and liability exposure
  • Constitutional questions: Age-based access restrictions may face challenges regarding property rights, due process, and whether entry restrictions differ meaningfully from sales restrictions already in place
  • Definition of "smoke shop": Unclear whether the restriction applies to all tobacco retailers, vape shops specifically, or a narrower category, affecting implementation scope

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

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