MONTGOMERY– The Alabama vaping law taking effect Oct. 1 will place electronic cigarettes and similar devices under the state’s existing indoor smoking restrictions. The Alabama Department of Public Health says vaping will be prohibited wherever the Clean Indoor Air Act already bars smoking.
Senate Bill 9 changes the law’s definition of smoking to include the use of an electronic nicotine delivery system. State Sen. Gerald Allen sponsored the measure, which became Act 2026-505. It also renames the law the Alabama Vivian Davis Figures and Barbara Drummond Clean Indoor Air Act.
Where the Alabama Vaping Law Applies
The change applies to enclosed public places where the state already restricts smoking. For example, those locations include hospitals, libraries, government buildings, stores, schools, and other educational facilities. The restrictions also apply in covered areas of restaurants, workplaces, and sports facilities.
In addition, the smoking restrictions apply to public meetings covered by the act. Private residences, however, are not considered public places under the law.
What Businesses and Residents Should Know
As a result, the health department urges affected businesses and organizations to review their smoking policies before Oct. 1. They should also check whether their posted signs reflect the new vaping restrictions. Likewise, people who use e-cigarettes should follow no-smoking rules in covered locations.
State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris said the law aims to reduce exposure to tobacco smoke and chemicals from vaping in shared indoor spaces.
“Creating healthier environments where Alabamians live, work, and gather is an important part of protecting public health,” Harris said.
Allen said the change extends existing indoor-air protections to electronic nicotine delivery systems. “We encourage businesses, organizations and individuals to familiarize themselves with the law before it takes effect October 1,” he said.
Rep. Barbara Drummond also emphasized the law’s public health goals. “Vaping poses serious concerns for public health, particularly for our young people,” she said.
For more on the law, visit ADPH’s tobacco laws page. People seeking help to quit can contact the Alabama Tobacco Quitline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW.
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