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HB 2642

Statewide Fire Prevention Code Act; counterfeit and unsafe lighters prohibited.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Terry Austin

Virginia prohibits manufacturing and selling unsafe or counterfeit lighters effective July 1, 2025, enforced through fire prevention standards to prevent child-related fire injuries.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0097)
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Bill Summary · HB 2642

Legislative bill overview

HB 2642 amends Virginia's Statewide Fire Prevention Code to prohibit the manufacture, sale, distribution, and possession of counterfeit and unsafe lighters. The bill establishes standards for lighter safety features, particularly child-resistant mechanisms, and creates enforcement mechanisms through the State Fire Marshal's office.

Why is this important

Unsafe lighters, particularly those lacking child-resistant features, contribute to unintentional fire deaths and injuries among children. This legislation aims to reduce accidental fires by ensuring all lighters sold in Virginia meet established safety standards and closing loopholes that allow dangerous counterfeit products into the market.

Potential points of contention

  • Enforcement burden: Implementation requires the State Fire Marshal to inspect and test lighters, which may strain agency resources and could increase costs for manufacturers and retailers
  • Definitional clarity: The bill's distinction between "counterfeit" and "unsafe" lighters may create ambiguity in enforcement, particularly regarding imported products and technical compliance standards
  • Retail compliance: Small retailers and convenience stores may face challenges identifying non-compliant products, potentially resulting in unintentional violations or uneven enforcement across the state

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

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