Subcommittee tables bill to raise fines, suspend licenses for retailers who sell vapes to minors

Richmond — The subcommittee on Tuesday tabled Senate Bill 11-47, which would increase penalties and license suspensions for tobacco and vape retailers who sell to minors, after members said enforcement and funding questions remain.

Senator French, sponsor of SB 11-47, described the measure as an effort to make it harder for minors to obtain vaping and tobacco products. The bill would increase the first-offense fine from $500 to $1,000, create a three-month suspension and $5,000 fine for second offenses, a 12-month suspension and $10,000 fine for a third offense within 36 months, and permanent license revocation for a fourth offense within 36 months.

Delegate Hope, who had worked with retailers and state agencies on enforcement earlier in the process, said enforcement costs and oversight remain unresolved. "It's a very complicated thing," Hope said, urging a stakeholder work group to determine funding and enforcement cadence. She said regular underage enforcement checks could be required and would take significant resources.

Senator French said he welcomed a collaborative approach and participation in such a work group. After discussion, the sponsor agreed to the motion to lay the bill on the table so stakeholders can convene; the subcommittee voted 5-3 to table SB 11-47.

Committee members emphasized the need for a coordinated plan involving retailers, ABC, tax authorities, health and education agencies and local enforcement to ensure sustained compliance checks. The tabling leaves the bill without immediate action but opens a path for further interagency work before reconsideration.