VermontBiz Today the Vermont House of Representatives passed S.18, a bill to end the sale of flavored tobacco products, with a vote of 83 to 53.
The Flavors Hook Kids Vermont Campaign released the following statement: "After five years of working to pass this bill, we are incredibly proud this legislation is moving forward in Vermont. Thank you to the House leaders for all their work and attention to this bill, and for prioritizing the health and welfare of Vermont kids. We firmly believe this bill will save lives and reduce health inequities. We look forward to it becoming law."
S.18 will end retail selling all flavored e-cigarettes, e-liquids, and oral nicotine pouches. The bill would also end the sale of all menthol-flavored tobacco products including cigarettes, cigars, pipe tobacco, and smokeless tobacco. Retailers in Vermont will not be allowed to sell prohibited products after January 1st, 2026. The bill would also direct the Office of the Attorney General to report on how Vermont may legally restrict advertising and regulate labels for e-cigarettes and other vaping-related products.
Youth ages 12-17 are the highest users of flavored tobacco products, according to the 2023 National Youth Tobacco Survey. Lawmakers spoke on the House floor about the extensive testimony from medical professionals, educators, parents, and members of the BIPOC community in support of the bill.
The bill will now return to the Vermont Senate, which passed S.18 in 2023 with a voice vote.
