Bill > SB5803

This bill comprehensively regulates tobacco and nicotine products in Washington State with several key provisions aimed at reducing youth tobacco use and protecting public health. The bill defines and prohibits the sale of flavored tobacco and nicotine products, entertainment vapor products (devices with interactive gaming features), and nicotine analogues starting July 1, 2027. It increases licensing fees for tobacco and vapor product retailers and distributors from around $175-$250 to $1,000, and imposes a new $2 per package tax on cigarettes with periodic adjustments for inflation. The legislation is motivated by concerning statistics about youth tobacco use, such as eight out of ten youth initiating tobacco use with flavored products and nearly 14% of 12th graders using vapor products. The bill requires retailers to display signs about the prohibition of sales to minors and flavored products, mandates that retailers can only obtain products from licensed distributors, and empowers the liquor and cannabis board to enforce these regulations with escalating monetary penalties and potential license suspensions for violations. Additionally, the department of health must develop a statewide prevention and awareness campaign about the health risks of flavored tobacco and nicotine products. The bill also recognizes the disproportionate impact of tobacco marketing on certain communities, particularly African American and Hispanic populations, and seeks to address these historical targeting practices.

Budget and Finance

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5803&Year=2025&Initiative=false