PASS THIS BILL. But we have reservations: We absolutely need to start defining specific guidelines for the general public as well as LE and others so that the guidelines are crystal clear as to what one can and can not do under law in the digital spaces. However, this law does not go far enough. It must contain specific language NOT GRANTING a color of law exception for police to provide deep fakes or any impersonation online, specifically in online dating/hookup/gaming platforms where they run unethical sex stings.

I am writing in regards to SB1147 and HB1946. I am the owner of 2 convenience stores in western Loudoun County Virginia and I applaud your thoughtful approach to enforcement in HB1946. A study group is definitely called for as just last year HB790 and SB582 were enacted and before the ink is even dry on them, or data from them regarding compliance rates are available...here comes yet another bill SB1147 that increases penalties in such a draconian manner that it would put some C-Stores out of business for a 2nd offense. In 2023 a full 81% of cigarette sales in this country take place in convenience stores. SB1147 penalties are very extreme and besides that the bad actors in this market are "vape shops" whose shelves are stuffed with products not on the FDA list of products approved for sale. In a typical C-Store 30% of its non fuel sales are tobacco products, that's just the average...in one of my stores over 70% of my non fuel sales are cigarettes. Only 34 vape products have FDA authorization and yet "vape shops" openly ignore the FDA regulations. It is important to note that any e-cigarette product not listed in the FDA's database is considered unauthorized and may not be legally marketed or sold in the United States. This is where enforcement action should be concentrated and unfortunately C-Stores often get lumped in with vape shops and the two could not be more different. As cigarette sales continue to drop year after year convenience stores are looking for other profit centers so they can survive a future without tobacco. I'm all for enforcement and penalties for those who don't properly run their business, but make them fair. It is frustrating for a business like mine which follows the rules to see these "vape shops" seemingly popping up everywhere you look. In regards to HB1147 you may be interested in the attached letter I sent to the sponsor Senator French. Thanks for your time,

The American Heart Association supports SB1147 and we thank Senator French for patroning this bill. Punishing retailers and individuals that sell these products to people 21 and younger is where the law should be focused on.