Tobacco and Nicotine Product Regulations in Alaska

What is the legal smoking age for purchasing tobacco and nicotine products in Alaska?

In Alaska, the legal smoking age for purchasing tobacco and nicotine products is 19.

Can I legally purchase e-cigarettes and vaping products in Alaska?

Yes, you can legally purchase e-cigarettes and vaping products in Alaska. However, it is important to note that local laws may have other restrictions in place. It is always best to check with your local authorities to make sure that you are in compliance with all applicable laws before purchasing any e-cigarette or vaping product.

Are there restrictions on the sale of flavored tobacco or vaping products in Alaska?

Yes, there are restrictions on the sale of flavored tobacco and vaping products in Alaska. Under the Alaska Clean Indoor Air Act, it is illegal to sell any tobacco product that has a flavor other than tobacco or menthol. This includes but is not limited to: candy, fruit, chocolate, mint, wintergreen, and other sweet flavors. Additionally, flavored e-cigarette products are not allowed to be sold to anyone under the age of 19.

Do state laws prohibit smoking in public places, such as restaurants, bars, and parks in Alaska?

Yes. Alaska’s Smokefree Air Act (AS 18.35.300 through 18.35.450) prohibits smoking in most public places and workplaces, including bars and restaurants, and within 20 feet of entrances, exits, windows that open, and ventilation intakes of public places and workplaces. The law also prohibits smoking in all public parks.

Is there a tax on tobacco and nicotine products in Alaska?

Yes, Alaska levies a tax on tobacco and nicotine products. As of January 1, 2021, the tax rate for cigarettes is $2.00 per pack of 20 cigarettes, while the tax rate for other tobacco products is 64.5% of the wholesale cost.

What are the penalties for selling tobacco or nicotine products to minors in Alaska?

The penalties for selling tobacco or nicotine products to minors in Alaska are as follows:

1. First Violation: A tobacco retailer who sells or furnishes tobacco or nicotine products to a person under 19 years of age shall be fined $500.

2. Second and Subsequent Violations: A tobacco retailer who sells or furnishes tobacco or nicotine products to a person under 19 years of age shall be fined $1,000 and may have their license suspended for up to 365 days. The department may also require the tobacco retailer to take corrective action such as additional staff training.

3. Other Penalties: In addition to the fines above, the retailer may be subject to other penalties including, but not limited to, suspension or revocation of their license and civil penalties of up to $10,000 for each violation.

Can I smoke or vape in indoor workplaces in Alaska?

No. In Alaska, smoking and vaping are prohibited in all indoor workplaces. This includes bars, restaurants, and other public places.

Are there restrictions on the advertising and marketing of tobacco and nicotine products in Alaska?

Yes, Alaska has a number of restrictions on the advertising and marketing of tobacco and nicotine products. These include bans on advertising in print media, radio, TV, and public places, restrictions on the placement of tobacco and nicotine product displays and signage, limitations on the distribution of promotional materials, and restrictions on the sponsorship of events and activities. The Alaska Department of Health and Social Services has compiled a comprehensive list of restrictions and prohibitions related to tobacco and nicotine product marketing available on their website.

Do state laws require graphic warning labels on cigarette packaging in Alaska?

No, Alaska does not require graphic warning labels on cigarette packaging.

What is the legal limit for the nicotine content in e-cigarette liquids in Alaska?

The legal limit for nicotine content in e-cigarette liquids in Alaska is 20 mg/ml.

Can I order tobacco or nicotine products online and have them shipped to my address in Alaska?

No, it is illegal to ship tobacco or nicotine products to Alaska.

Are there designated smoking areas at public venues and airports in Alaska?

Yes, there are designated smoking areas at public venues and airports in Alaska. Many airports have designated smoking areas outside the terminals. Local restaurants, bars, and other public venues may also have designated smoking areas. Some locations may require patrons to smoke in designated outdoor areas.

Are tobacco cessation programs and resources available for residents in Alaska?

Yes, tobacco cessation programs and resources are available for residents in Alaska. The Alaska Department of Health and Social Services provides statewide access to cessation programs, services, and resources on their website. The Alaska Tobacco Quit Line also provides free phone counseling to Alaskans who wish to quit smoking. In addition, there are several local organizations that offer support groups, classes, and other services for those who want to quit tobacco.

Do local municipalities have the authority to set their own tobacco regulations in addition to state laws in Alaska?

Yes, local municipalities in Alaska have the authority to set their own tobacco regulations. However, any local tobacco regulations must not conflict with state laws.

Are there age verification requirements for purchasing tobacco and nicotine products online in Alaska?

Yes, there are age verification requirements for purchasing tobacco and nicotine products online in Alaska. Under Alaska law, retailers are required to verify the age of all customers purchasing tobacco and nicotine products online or in-person. Retailers must verify the age of customers through an age-verification service or by using a valid, government-issued photo identification.

Can I grow my own tobacco plants for personal use in Alaska?

No, it is not legal to grow tobacco plants for personal use in Alaska. It is illegal to cultivate, manufacture, sell, possess, or otherwise distribute tobacco products in Alaska without a permit from the Alaska Department of Revenue.

Do state laws regulate the sale of nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) like nicotine gum and patches in Alaska?

Yes, state laws regulate the sale of NRTs in Alaska. According to Alaska Statute 11.76, these products may only be sold to persons 18 years of age or older. People under the age of 18 are not allowed to purchase or use NRTs unless they have been prescribed by a physician. Additionally, retailers are required to keep these products in a secure area and are prohibited from displaying them in areas that are accessible to minors.

What is the legal age for purchasing tobacco and nicotine products on Native American reservations in Alaska?

It varies from tribe to tribe. Generally, the legal age to purchase tobacco and nicotine products on Native American reservations in Alaska is 18 or 21.

Are there restrictions on the sale of single cigarettes or small cigar packages in Alaska?

Yes, Alaska law restricts the sale of single cigarettes or small packages of cigars. It is illegal to sell single cigarettes or small cigars in packages with fewer than 20 cigars. Additionally, retailers are prohibited from selling any tobacco product to anyone under the age of 19.

Do state laws address the disposal of tobacco and nicotine product waste, such as cigarette butts in Alaska?

Yes, Alaska state law does address the disposal of tobacco and nicotine product waste, such as cigarette butts. According to the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation, it is illegal to discard cigarette ends in any public or private place, including roadsides, parks and other public lands. Cigarette waste must be disposed of in a proper container or deposited in a trash receptacle. Additionally, it is recommended that smokers use ashtrays or other portable containers for proper disposal of cigarette butts when smoking in public areas.