Alabama Enacts Strict E-Cigarette Regulations: Only FDA-Approved or Locally Manufactured Products Permitted

Alabama has enacted one of the strictest state-level e-cigarette regulations in the U.S. after Governor Kay Ivey signed House Bill 8 (HB8) into law last week. The legislation introduces comprehensive restrictions on the sale, marketing, and distribution of e-cigarette and nicotine products, with a strong focus on protecting youth and tightening enforcement.

According to AL.com, the bill limits convenience stores to just 34 FDA-authorized tobacco and mint-flavored e-cigarette products, effectively banning thousands of other flavored items currently awaiting FDA review. Only age-restricted specialty vape shops are permitted to carry broader product selections under strict compliance requirements.

🔍 Key Provisions of HB8 at a Glance

1. Raised Age Limits and Youth Protection

• The legal age to purchase e-cigarettes, tobacco, and alternative nicotine products is now 21, up from 19.

• Minors caught in possession of such products must complete educational or addiction treatment programs.

2. Licensing Overhaul

• All vape retailers must obtain a specialty license, with:

  • A $50 application fee

  • An annual license fee of $1,000

• Only stores where more than 50% of revenue comes from nicotine or vapor products are allowed to operate as licensed “Electronic Nicotine Delivery System (ENDS) Specialty Stores.”

3. Complete Ban on Unmanned Sales

• Vending machines are prohibited unless located in age-restricted areas (21+) or monitored by staff.

• Self-service displays are also banned.

4. Stricter Advertising & Marketing Regulations

• Bans claims such as:

  • “Smoking cessation alternative”

  • “Healthier than cigarettes”

• Prohibits visuals in ads that resemble candy, desserts, or child-targeted imagery.

• No billboards promoting flavored products (except tobacco, mint, menthol) within 1,000 feet of schools or playgrounds.

• No sponsorships of scholarships or events using brand names.

• Advertising is banned at youth-heavy events or media where the primary audience is under 21.

5. U.S. Manufacturing Requirement & Product Traceability

• Starting October 1, 2025, any new e-cigarette liquids or ENDS products entering the Alabama market must:

  • Be manufactured, packaged, and labeled in the U.S.,

  • Or have received FDA marketing authorization.

⚠️ Industry Impact: Disruption Across Retail Channels

1. Convenience Stores Face Major Product Cuts

With most flavored e-cigarette products banned from general retail, convenience stores will be forced to eliminate roughly 30% of their current inventory, according to industry sources. For many small businesses, this represents a significant loss of revenue.

2. Vape Shops Must Meet High Compliance Standards

Vape specialty stores must:

• Install third-party age-verification systems at entry

• Scan IDs before allowing access

• Enforce 21+ entry restrictions

Violations will result in:

• $1,000 fine for the first offense

• Heavier penalties for repeat violations, including license suspension or revocation

3. Aggressive Enforcement Initiatives

The Alabama Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Board will lead undercover compliance operations, collaborating with law enforcement and deploying underage decoys to test retailer adherence to age restrictions.

HB8 marks a significant escalation in state-level e-cigarette regulation. While supporters applaud the law as a public health milestone, critics argue it could devastate small businesses, limit adult access to reduced-risk alternatives, and create opportunities for illicit trade.

Reference：  Alabama Prohibits C-Stores From Selling Most Vape Products