This bill aims to improve public health and safety by prohibiting the sale of flavored tobacco and nicotine products, regulating retailers, and increasing taxes on tobacco products. It recognizes the public health risks associated with tobacco use, especially among youth, and includes provisions to define flavored products, establish penalties for violations, and mandate a public awareness campaign. Key provisions include the prohibition of flavored products starting July 1, 2027, and the establishment of a statewide prevention campaign by the Department of Health. The Liquor and Cannabis Board is empowered to enforce these regulations, including revoking or suspending licenses of non-compliant retailers.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new tax of $2 per package of cigarettes, with adjustments based on the consumer price index starting in December 2028, and increases application and renewal fees for wholesaler and retailer licenses to $1,000. It revises the tax structure for vapor products to a rate of 95% of the taxable sales price and outlines the distribution of collected funds for cancer research and public health services. The bill also amends various sections of the Revised Code of Washington related to the licensing and regulation of tobacco distributors and retailers, including new provisions for the seizure and forfeiture of tobacco products and penalties for violations.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 26.28.080, 43.06.455, 70.345.010, 70.155.090, 70.155.100, 70.345.030, 70.345.040, 70.345.050, 70.345.060, 70.345.020, 70.345.120, 70.345.180, 82.24.520, 82.24.530, 82.25.005, 69.50.101, 82.25.030, 82.25.095, 82.25.110, 82.26.010, 82.26.020, 82.26.030, 82.26.060, 82.26.160, 82.26.170, 82.26.190, 82.26.200, 82.26.240, 82.26.260