New law will prohibit the use of electronic nicotine delivery systems in places where smoking is prohibited

Beginning October 1, 2026, Alabama’s Clean Indoor Air Act will expand to include electronic nicotine delivery systems, such as e-cigarettes and vaping devices.

Senate Bill 9, sponsored by State Sen. Gerald Allen and signed into law as Act 2026-505, amends Alabama’s Clean Indoor Air Act to define smoking to include the use of an electronic nicotine delivery system. As a result, vaping will be subject to the same restrictions as smoking tobacco products under the state’s Clean Indoor Air Act. The law also renames the act the Vivian Davis Figures and Barbara Drummond Clean Indoor Air Act.

The law applies to enclosed public places, including, but not limited to, auditoriums, elevators, hospitals, nursing homes, libraries, courtrooms, jury waiting rooms and deliberation rooms, theaters, museums, common areas of retirement homes, restaurants, laundromats, health facilities, educational facilities, shopping malls, government buildings, sports and recreational facilities, places of employment, airports, banks, retail stores, and service establishments. Private residences are not considered public places under the act.

"Creating healthier environments where Alabamians live, work, and gather is an important part of protecting public health. Reducing exposure to tobacco smoke and harmful chemicals from vaping in indoor public spaces is an important step toward protecting the health and well-being of Alabamians. This law provides an opportunity to strengthen our commitment to healthier, smoke and vape-free environments across the state," said State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris.

The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) encourages businesses and organizations covered by the Clean Indoor Air Act to review their existing smoking policies and make any necessary updates before the effective date. The department also encourages Alabamians who use electronic nicotine delivery systems to be aware of the new requirements and to respect posted no-smoking policies in covered locations.

Under the new law:

· The use of electronic nicotine delivery systems is included in the definition of “smoking” under the Alabama Clean Indoor Air Act.

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· Where the Clean Indoor Air Act prohibits smoking, the ban will also apply to vaping and the use of electronic nicotine delivery systems.

· Businesses and organizations covered by the law should ensure their smoking policies and signage accurately reflect the new requirements.

· The law does not prohibit the use of electronic nicotine delivery systems in private residences.

“Alabama has long recognized the importance of protecting people from exposure to tobacco smoke in indoor public spaces,” said Senator Allen. “This law brings electronic nicotine delivery systems under those same protections. We encourage businesses, organizations and individuals to familiarize themselves with the law before it takes effect October 1.”

Rep. Drummond said, "We appreciate the support of the Alabama Legislature and the Governor in adopting this important act to protect public places and promote clean air for Alabamians statewide. Vaping poses serious concerns for public health, particularly for our young people. While the long-term health effects of vaping continue to be studied, we know enough to recognize the risks associated with nicotine addiction and exposure to harmful substances. This legislation is an important step toward creating healthier environments, protecting our children and families, and ensuring that every Alabamian can breathe cleaner air in public spaces. Protecting public health is not just about today - it is about safeguarding the health and well-being of future generations."

For more information about Alabama’s Clean Indoor Air Act, visit www.alabamapublichealth.gov/tpts/alabama-laws.html. For information and resources to help quit tobacco, visit the Alabama Tobacco Quitline website at www.alabamapublichealth.gov/tobacco/quitline.html, or call 1-800-Quit Now.