MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Alabama lawmakers are preparing to revisit a proposed statewide ban on vaping in enclosed public spaces during the upcoming legislative session.
Sen. Gerald Allen, R-Tuscaloosa, prefiled Senate Bill 9 for 2026, aiming to add vaping and electronic nicotine delivery systems to the forms of smoking already prohibited in places such as restaurants, offices and stores. The measure would fall under a revised “Vivian Davis Figures Clean Indoor Air Act.” An identical proposal did not pass in the last session but is expected to reemerge as the legislature reconvenes.
State officials cited concerns about indoor air quality and the rising popularity of vaping, particularly among young people and in public gathering spots. The bill would extend existing regulations that currently restrict smoking tobacco products in public buildings to include e-cigarettes and related devices.
The move follows several new laws in 2025 that placed tighter restrictions on the vape industry in Alabama, including a requirement for specialty retailers to obtain permits, stricter limits on advertising near schools, and the prohibition of vending machine sales. Flavored vape products are now limited to specialty shops, and all nicotine products sold must have child-resistant packaging.
While vaping is already banned in select environments such as licensed daycares and ambulances during patient care, the broad ban for all enclosed public areas has not yet taken effect. The bill’s supporters say this effort would address gaps in current law, while opponents argue that it may place an undue burden on small businesses and adults who use vaping as an alternative to cigarettes.
The legislature will consider the proposal when it reconvenes in Montgomery early next year.