Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB2735

Filed

2/12/25

Out of House Committee

4/8/25

Voted on by House

4/25/25

Out of Senate Committee

Voted on by Senate

Governor Action

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to a prohibition on e-cigarette advertising in certain locations.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2735 would significantly alter the landscape of e-cigarette advertising in Texas. The legislation is framed within a public health context, aiming to reduce the visibility of e-cigarettes to young audiences, thereby potentially decreasing youth uptake of vaping products. By tightening proximity regulations, supporters believe it will create a safer environment for minors and manifest a broader commitment to public health initiatives aimed at combating the rise of youth vaping.

Summary

House Bill 2735 aims to prohibit advertising of e-cigarettes within a specified distance from schools and churches in the state of Texas. The bill seeks to amend current regulations by modifying the existing provisions in the Health and Safety Code concerning the placement of tobacco advertising signs. Specifically, it introduces a regulation that would restrict such advertisements to a minimum distance of 1,000 feet from these institutions, as a measure to protect children and encourage public health.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2735 appears to be supportive among public health advocates and organizations seeking to minimize the health risks associated with e-cigarette use among young people. However, there may also be contention from business interests related to e-cigarette companies and advertising agencies. Opponents could view the measure as a restriction on free commerce or expression, questioning the extent to which the government should regulate advertisement based on perceived health risks.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding the bill may revolve around the effectiveness of advertising restrictions in curbing youth vaping habits, as well as concerns about overregulation impacting businesses. Critics might argue that while the intent is to protect public health, the restrictions could unduly limit advertising avenues for legal businesses. Additionally, discussions could emerge about the balance between public health initiatives and economic interests in the vaping sector.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Health And Safety Code

Chapter 161. Public Health Provisions
- Section: New Section
- Section: New Section
- Section: New Section
- Section: New Section

Latest HB2735 Activity

Companion Bills

TX SB1316

Same As Relating to a prohibition on e-cigarette advertising in certain locations.

Similar Bills

CA SB538

Electronic cigarettes.

TX SB97

Relating to regulation of the sale, distribution, possession, use, and advertising of e-cigarettes, cigarettes, and tobacco products; amending provisions subject to a criminal penalty.

TX HB170

Relating to regulation of the sale, distribution, possession, use, and advertising of e-cigarettes, cigarettes, and tobacco products; creating criminal offenses.

TX SB2054

Relating to a directory of e-cigarettes and alternative nicotine products sold in this state, and regulation of the sale and distribution of e-cigarettes and alternative nicotine products; imposing fees; creating criminal offenses; imposing a civil penalty; imposing administrative penalties.