The proposed bill seeks to improve 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 introduces new definitions for "flavored tobacco or nicotine product" and "entertainment vapor product," and establishes a rebuttable presumption that products marketed with certain descriptors are flavored. The bill also mandates the Department of Health to implement a statewide prevention and awareness campaign about the health risks associated with these products.

To ensure compliance, the bill outlines penalties for retailers who violate these regulations, including monetary fines that escalate 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. Additionally, the bill amends existing definitions related to tobacco and vapor products for clarity and establishes that a retailer's license must be suspended or revoked if their vapor product license is also suspended or revoked. Overall, the legislation aims to protect the health of Washingtonians, particularly youth, from the dangers posed by flavored tobacco and nicotine products.

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