Proposed ban on flavored tobacco products is revived in WA Legislature
Democratic lawmakers have revamped their approach to banning flavored tobacco products in Washington.
In new bills filed Friday in the state House and Senate, the original prohibition on flavored vapes proposed early in the legislative session is combined with an increase in cigarette taxes. The measure’s sponsor in the House, Rep. Kristine Reeves, D-Federal Way, said she hopes it becomes part of the smorgasbord of revenue measures Democrats are eyeing to fill the looming budget deficit.
The new legislation, House Bill 2068, revives the ambitious and controversial prohibition that had made little progress in Olympia so far this year. Supporters hope it can curb youth smoking, as studies show middle and high school students overwhelmingly favor flavored options.
Andrew Estep, the campaign manager for Flavors Hook Kids Washington, calls the new plan a “holistic approach to bettering the health of Washington residents.”
https://washingtonstatestandard.com/2025/04/01/proposed-ban-on-flavored-vapes-revived-in-wa-legislature/