Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Health Care & Wellness Committee

SJM 8008

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

Brief Description: Urging federal legislation to prohibit the sale of tobacco and vapor products to anyone under the age of twenty-one.

Sponsors: Senators Bailey, O'Ban and Kuderer.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Requests the federal government to prohibit the sale of tobacco products to persons under the age of 21.

Hearing Date: 3/19/19

Staff: Jim Morishima (786-7191).

Background:

Federal law prohibits the sale of tobacco products to persons under the age of 18, but allows states to establish a higher age limit. Washington law prohibits the sale of tobacco products to persons under the age of 18. However, legislation introduced during the 2019 legislative session (House Bill 1074 and Senate Bill 5057) would increase that age to 21.

Summary of Bill:

The Legislature requests the federal age to purchase tobacco products to be increased to age 21. The memorial must be transmitted to the federal government upon the passage of Senate Bill 5057.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.