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HB 1782

TO PROHIBIT OVER-THE-COUNTER DIET PILLS FROM BEING SOLD, TRANSFERRED, OR OTHERWISE FURNISHED TO A PERSON WHO IS UNDER EIGHTEEN YEARS OF AGE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mary Bentley and 14 co-sponsors

Act 642 prohibits selling over-the-counter diet pills to minors under 18, protecting their health and requiring retailers to verify age before sales.

Notification that HB1782 is now Act 642
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1782

Summary of House Bill 1782 (Act 642)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1782, now known as Act 642, aims to protect minors by prohibiting the sale, transfer, or furnishing of over-the-counter diet pills to individuals under the age of eighteen. The legislation is designed to address health concerns related to the use of diet pills among adolescents, who may be more susceptible to the potential risks associated with these products.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several important provisions:

  1. Definition of Over-the-Counter Diet Pills:

    • The term "over-the-counter diet pills" refers to drugs marketed for weight loss that do not require a prescription, as defined under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
    • This includes products with a drug facts panel that may contain approved drug ingredients or those deemed adulterated.

  2. Restrictions on Sales:

    • Retail establishments are prohibited from selling, transferring, or otherwise furnishing over-the-counter diet pills to anyone under eighteen years of age.
    • Retailers must request valid identification from customers who appear to be underage.

  3. Enforcement and Penalties:

    • Violations of this prohibition are classified as deceptive and unconscionable trade practices, subject to penalties under the Deceptive Trade Practices Act.
    • Retail establishments found in violation may face fines up to $2,000.

  4. Rulemaking Authority:

    • The Arkansas Department of Health is empowered to promulgate rules to implement the provisions of this act, including determining which diet pills fall under the restrictions.

Affected Parties

  • Retail Establishments: Pharmacies, grocery stores, and other vendors that sell over-the-counter diet pills will be directly impacted by the new regulations.
  • Minors: Individuals under eighteen years of age will benefit from increased protections against access to potentially harmful diet pills.
  • Health Authorities: The Department of Health will play a key role in enforcing the new regulations and ensuring compliance.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: March 13, 2025
  • Passed by House: March 20, 2025
  • Passed by Senate: April 10, 2025
  • Enacted: April 16, 2025, as Act 642

Conclusion

House Bill 1782 (Act 642) represents a significant step towards safeguarding the health of minors in Arkansas by restricting access to over-the-counter diet pills. The legislation not only establishes clear guidelines for retailers but also empowers health authorities to oversee compliance and protect vulnerable populations from potential health risks associated with these products.

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

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