Texas House Bill HB1939

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to the regulation of the sale of dextromethorphan to minors; providing civil penalties.

Impact

The introduction of this bill signifies a shift in state law regarding the sale of over-the-counter medications to minors, focusing on public health and safety. By restricting access to dextromethorphan, lawmakers aim to decrease the potential for abuse and misuse among younger individuals. The bill also outlines a tiered system of civil penalties for businesses that violate these regulations, starting with a warning for the first infraction and escalating to a fine for subsequent violations. This approach reflects a punitive measure intended to encourage compliance among retailers.

Summary

House Bill 1939 aims to regulate the sale of dextromethorphan, an over-the-counter medication commonly found in cough suppressants, to minors. The bill establishes that it is illegal for any business establishment to sell or dispense this substance to individuals under the age of 18. To enforce this prohibition, establishments are mandated to check the identification of customers to ensure compliance. Acceptable forms of identification include a driver's license, passport, or state-issued ID that verifies the customer's age.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1939 appears to be generally favorable among lawmakers advocating for youth protection and health safety. Supporters argue that controlling access to potentially harmful substances is crucial for the well-being of minors. However, there may be concerns from some business owners regarding the additional responsibilities and management that implementing these regulations would require, as they must verify IDs consistently to avoid penalties.

Contention

Notably, there are concerns regarding enforcement and compliance with the new regulations proposed by HB1939. Business establishments may feel burdened by the need to train staff on identification verification and may question the practicality of enforcing fines for violations. Additionally, there could be arguments regarding whether such measures adequately address the underlying issues of substance misuse among youth or if they constitute overreach into the regulation of harmless products.