Why Oregon’s new tobacco law matters for our communities
Oregon’s updated tobacco law is now in effect, bringing stronger protections to help keep young people from becoming addicted to nicotine. As of June 5, Senate Bill 1571 expanded the definition of “tobacco products” to include newer nicotine items such as oral nicotine pouches, lozenges, gum, and other synthetic or tobacco products. These items are now regulated just like cigarettes and vapes, and you must be 21 or older to buy them.
This change comes at a time when nicotine products are growing in popularity, especially among youth. In 2024, oral nicotine pouches became the second most commonly used nicotine product among middle and high school students in the United States. Many come in flavors like mint, citrus, berry, and chill—flavors shown to appeal to young people. Research shows that most youth who try tobacco products begin with a flavored one.
Tobacco use continues to be the leading cause of preventable disease and death in Oregon, contributing to about 8,000 deaths every year. Health leaders say this law is an important step in keeping up with an industry that is constantly introducing new, highly addictive products.
What we’re seeing in local stores, and why it matters for youth
To better understand what people are seeing in their neighborhoods, Oregon Health Authority (OHA) visited more than 1,100 retail stores across the state in 2025. The assessment found that many stores offered discounts on nicotine products, including the newer oral nicotine items. One widely available brand averaged just $5.60, making it the lowest-priced nicotine product studied.
Researchers and community partners are concerned because young people are often the most sensitive to price. Low-cost nicotine items can make it easier for teens to try and keep using these products, putting them at greater risk for addiction during a critical period of brain development. Nearly 90 percent of adults who smoke start before age 18.
How Oregon is working toward healthier communities
With the updated law now in effect, OHA is encouraging retailers to review their ID‑checking practices and make sure employees understand the new rules. OHA and local public health partners will continue undercover compliance checks to support safe and legal sales.
Retailers can find free training manuals, fact sheets, and checklists at healthoregon.org/tobaccoretailsales. They can also email Tobacco.Inspections@odhsoha.oregon.gov or call 971‑673‑2283 with questions.
Free support for anyone ready to quit
Oregonians who want to quit nicotine have access to many free resources. You can get free counseling and free Nicotine Replacement Therapy mailed to your home by:
- Texting “ready” (English) or “Listo” (Spanish) to 21586.
- Calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW (English) or 1-855-DEJELO-YA (Spanish).
- Visiting quitnow.net/oregon.
- Downloading the free Quit for Life app.
Many local pharmacists can also help you create a personalized quit plan and provide follow-up support. If you prefer to quit on your own, you can find tips and tools at smokefreeoregon.com/im-ready-to-quit.
Thank you for standing with your community and supporting a healthier, nicotine-free future for Oregon’s youth.