18.2-371.4 - Prohibiting the sale of novelty lighters to juveniles. - Virginia Statutes

§ 18.2-371.4. Prohibiting the sale of novelty lighters to juveniles.

A. "Novelty lighter" means a mechanical or electrical device containing acombustible fuel typically used for lighting cigarettes, cigars, or pipesthat is (i) designed to resemble a cartoon character, toy, gun, watch,musical instrument, vehicle, animal, food, or beverage, or (ii) a fancifularticle that plays musical notes, has flashing lights, or has otherentertaining features that are appealing to or intended for use by juveniles.A novelty lighter may operate on any fuel, including butane, isobutene, orliquid fuel.

B. "Novelty lighter" does not include (i) a lighter without fuel and thatis incapable of being fueled, (ii) a lighter lacking a device necessary toproduce combustion or a flame, (iii) a mechanical or electrical deviceprimarily used to ignite fuel for fireplaces or for charcoal or gas grills,(iv) a lighter manufactured prior to 1980, or (v) a standard disposablelighter that is printed or decorated with logos, labels, decals, or artwork,or heat shrinkable sleeves.

C. Novelty lighters that are available for purchase at a retail establishmentshall be located in a place that is not open to the general public.

D. Any individual who sells a novelty lighter to a person he knows or hasreason to know is a juvenile is subject to a civil penalty of no more than$100.

E. This section may be enforced by the State Fire Marshal's Office, localfire marshals appointed pursuant to § 27-34.2 or 27-34.2:1, orlaw-enforcement officers.

(2009, c. 668.)