Alabama House Approves Controversial Bill Targeting Marijuana Use Around Children

TWLN Staff Report | The Weekly Ledger News | State News

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — A bill aimed at limiting children’s exposure to marijuana smoke sparked rare intra-party debate Thursday as the Alabama House of Representatives approved legislation that would ban smoking or vaping marijuana in vehicles carrying minors and require mandatory reporting in certain cases.

House Bill 72, sponsored by Patrick Sellers, D-Pleasant Grove, would prohibit anyone from smoking or vaping marijuana inside a vehicle when a child under the age of 19 is present. Sellers argued the bill is intended to protect children from the harmful effects of secondhand marijuana smoke.

“Don’t smoke marijuana around your children,” Sellers said during floor debate, adding that secondhand exposure poses health risks.

Under the bill, violations would be classified as a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail. Offenders would also be required to complete an education program through the Alabama Department of Public Health addressing the dangers of drug use around children.

The legislation also requires mandatory reporters, including teachers, to notify the Department of Human Resources if a child is suspected of being exposed to marijuana, such as when a child smells of the substance.

The reporting provision drew opposition from some Democrats, including Juandalynn Givan, D-Birmingham, who raised concerns about unintended consequences and potential racial profiling.

“The laws already on the books are sufficient,” Givan said, noting worries about how the bill could be applied.

Despite divided Democratic support — with five voting in favor, two voting against, and others abstaining or not voting — the bill passed largely due to Republican backing.

House Bill 72 now advances to the Alabama Senate. If approved and signed by Kay Ivey, the law would take effect October 1.

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