The proposed bill aims to enhance public health in Washington by prohibiting the sale of flavored tobacco and nicotine products, as well as entertainment vapor products, starting January 1, 2026. It highlights the public health risks associated with tobacco use, particularly among youth, and establishes new definitions for "flavored tobacco or nicotine product" and "entertainment vapor product." The bill also creates a rebuttable presumption that products marketed with certain descriptors are flavored and mandates the Department of Health to implement a statewide prevention and awareness campaign regarding the risks of these products.

To enforce these prohibitions, the bill outlines penalties for retailers who violate the regulations, including monetary fines that increase with repeated offenses and the potential suspension or revocation of licenses. Retailers are required to display signs, provided by the liquor and cannabis board, informing customers of the prohibition on flavored products. The bill also amends existing definitions related to tobacco and vapor products, ensuring clarity and extending the scope of regulation to include flavored products. Additionally, it establishes a new chapter in Title 70 RCW and includes a severability clause to maintain the act's validity even if certain provisions are found invalid.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.06.455, 70.155.100, 70.345.070, 70.345.180, 82.25.005, 69.50.101