Washington State Proposes Ban on Flavored Tobacco

Washington lawmakers have introduced a bill, HB 1203, aimed at banning the sale of flavored tobacco and nicotine products, including menthol cigarettes and newer interactive gaming-related tobacco products. The legislation addresses concerns about the targeting of young people and communities of color by the tobacco industry, citing significant usage rates among these demographics. State Rep. Kristine Reeves, who sponsors the bill, highlighted the personal impact of menthol cigarettes on her family, emphasizing the urgency of the ban. The bill mandates a public health campaign to educate about the risks of flavored tobacco, alongside penalties for retailers who violate the ban, starting at $200. If approved, the ban would take effect on January 1, 2026. This initiative has garnered broad support from local officials amid rising nicotine use among youth in Washington state.