Washington Eyes $5 Cigarette Tax & Higher Vape Levies
Washington state lawmakers are actively considering legislation to raise the cigarette tax to $5 per pack and significantly increase levies on vaping products. The proposed bills aim to generate revenue to address a budget deficit while simultaneously discouraging youth smoking and vaping through higher prices, particularly on flavored products.
Key Takeaways:
- Cigarette Tax Hike: Proposal to raise tax from $3.025 to $5.00 per pack.
- Vape Tax Surge: New 90% tax on taxable selling price for nicotine products proposed.
- Flavor Penalty: Additional 10% tax on flavored nicotine products.
- Budget Impact: Estimated to raise ~$117 million in the 2027-29 biennium.
Washington Democrats have confirmed a renewed push to increase taxes on cigarettes and vaping products during this legislative session. This development occurs amidst a projected $2.3 billion state budget deficit, directly resulting in proposals that would make Washington’s tobacco taxes among the highest in the nation.
The Proposal: A $5 Pack and 90% Vape Tax
Two primary bills, Senate Bill 6129 and House Bill 2382, are leading this charge. They aim to raise the current cigarette tax of $3.025 per pack by nearly $2, bringing the total to $5 per pack of 20.
Beyond traditional cigarettes, the legislation targets the evolving nicotine market with a drastic overhaul of vape taxation:
| Product Type | Proposed Tax Structure (Starting July 1, 2027) |
|---|---|
| All Nicotine Products (Vapes) | 90% of the taxable selling price. |
| Flavored Nicotine Products | Additional 10% surcharge (Totaling ~100% tax impact). |
| Flavored Cigarettes (e.g., Menthol) | Rate increases to $5.50 per pack starting Jan 1, 2028. |
Practically, this means a flavored vape costing $10 at distribution could cost a consumer over $20 once the new taxes are applied.
The “Win-Win” Argument: Health and Revenue
Proponents frame the tax hike as a dual victory. Heidi Low of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids argues it will prevent youth initiation and save lives. “It’s a win-win for the state,” she stated, citing the success of previous tax increases 16 years ago.
Rep. Lisa Parshley, a sponsor of the House bill, emphasized the public health necessity. Washington currently spends over $3 billion annually on healthcare related to smoking-caused diseases. The revenue generated—estimated at $117 million for the 2027-29 biennium—would initially support the general fund before being directed to cancer research and public health services.
Opposition: Regressive Taxes and Cross-Border Sales
Critics argue the tax is regressive and will hurt local businesses. The Association of Washington Business warned it would “fall hardest on lower income Washingtonians.”
State Rep. Ed Orcutt raised concerns about cross-border shopping, noting that higher prices could drive consumers to neighboring Oregon and Idaho, where taxes are lower. “It seems to be more about filling a hole in the budget that’s there because of overspending,” Orcutt said. Retailers also fear a boom in the unregulated black market, which could ultimately lead to lost tax revenue and increased theft.
- Read more: Vaping Taxes by State in the United States 2025
- News source: WA lawmakers want to make vaping and cigarettes more expensive
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