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HB 1402

Restrictions on location of tobacco and vaping shops.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Wendy Dant Chesser and 2 co-sponsors

HB 1402 would restrict where tobacco and vaping retailers can operate in Indiana, likely to reduce youth access to nicotine products.

First reading: referred to Committee on Public Policy
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1402

Legislative bill overview

HB 1402 would establish restrictions on where tobacco and vaping shops can be physically located within Indiana. The bill has been introduced and referred to the Public Policy Committee, though specific location restrictions (such as distance from schools, residential areas, or other sensitive locations) are not detailed in the available information provided.

Why is this important

Location restrictions on tobacco and vaping retailers are a public health policy tool designed to reduce youth access and normalize tobacco/nicotine use among minors. Such regulations can influence sales patterns, affect existing business operations, and raise questions about enforcement mechanisms and economic impacts on current retailers.

Potential points of contention

  • Youth access vs. business operations: Balancing public health goals with the property rights and livelihoods of existing tobacco shop owners who may face relocation requirements
  • Definition and scope ambiguity: Uncertainty about how "restrictions" are defined—distance thresholds, affected areas, and what counts as a "tobacco and vaping shop" could create compliance challenges
  • Enforcement and grandfather clause questions: Whether existing businesses are grandfathered in, how violations are penalized, and which agency oversees compliance remain unclear without bill text details

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

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