Alabama SB9 would treat vaping like smoking under indoor public-space restrictions

Key Takeaways

• Measure: Senate Bill 9 in Alabama

• Main change: vaping included within the definition of “smoking,” applying existing indoor restrictions to ENDS

• Naming: sponsored by Sen. Allen; would rename the act for Vivian Davis Figures; reviewed by the Healthcare Committee

• Coverage: government buildings, workplaces (5+ employees), restaurants, hospitals, schools, libraries, retail stores, malls, airports, public transportation

• Limits: no new penalties or enforcement powers; businesses update signage/policies; no regulation of sales, flavors, age limits or outdoor use

2Firsts, January 4, 2026 – According to ABC3340, Alabama’s Senate Bill 9 aims to modernize the state’s indoor air quality laws by treating electronic nicotine delivery systems, such as e-cigarettes and vape pens, the same as traditional tobacco smoking in indoor public spaces.

Sponsored by Sen. Allen and set for review by the Healthcare Committee, the bill would rename the Alabama Clean Indoor Air Act to the Vivian Davis Figures Clean Indoor Air Act, honoring the civil rights attorney and public health advocate.

The legislation expands the definition of “smoking” to include vaping, aligning with existing Alabama law definitions. This means vaping would be prohibited in the same indoor locations as smoking, including government buildings, workplaces with five or more employees, restaurants, hospitals, schools, libraries, retail stores, malls, airports and public transportation.

SB9 does not introduce new enforcement powers or penalties. Instead, it uses existing mechanisms to apply current rules equally to tobacco smoking and vaping. Businesses would need to update signage and policies to reflect the change, but no new compliance reporting requirements are introduced.

The bill addresses public health concerns about secondhand aerosol exposure and workplace air quality, and aligns Alabama with other states that regulate indoor vaping. It does not regulate vape sales, flavors, age limits, or outdoor use, and the effective date allows time for public awareness and policy updates.

Image source: ABC3340