Oklahoma Reinstates Fines for Underage Tobacco and Vaping

Recently, the Governor of Oklahoma, Kevin Stitt, signed a new bill (H.B.2165) that imposes fines on individuals under the age of 21 for possession of tobacco or e-cigarette products.

This is not the first time that a similar law has been enforced in the state, as Oklahoma had a law in place that punishes such behavior.

In 2022, Stitt signed a law that eliminated fines for individuals under the age of 21 who illegally purchase or possess electronic cigarettes and other products.

In 2023, Oklahoma State Representative Cynthia Roe introduced a new bill (H.B.2165) that seeks to restore the city government's authority to formulate and enforce regulations related to tobacco and electronic cigarette products.

The bill reintroduces penalties for individuals under the age of 21 who are caught with, purchasing, attempting to purchase, or using fraudulent identification cards in an effort to purchase tobacco or e-cigarette products.

Anyone who violates this law must participate in a smoking cessation program and may be required to complete community service. If they refuse community service, the first offense will result in a fine of $50, with any subsequent offenses resulting in a $100 fine.

According to reports, the new law is set to take effect on November 1, 2023.

Related reading:

The Oklahoma state House of Representatives has approved raising the legal age to purchase tobacco to 21.

Oklahoma State in the United States has developed a policy aimed at reducing the use of electronic cigarettes in the state.

Sales of Juul electronic cigarettes have soared in the state of Oklahoma, United States.

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Oklahoma will be reintroducing penalties for those caught possessing tobacco products and vaping devices while underage.