PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon tobacco retailers will soon be required to follow new regulations covering a broader range of nicotine products as a state law aimed at reducing youth nicotine addiction takes effect June 5.
The new law, Senate Bill 1571, expands Oregon’s definition of tobacco products to include oral nicotine pouches, lozenges, gum and other nicotine products, regardless of whether the nicotine is derived from tobacco or produced synthetically. The legislation was signed into law in March and aligns Oregon regulations with federal standards governing nicotine products.
Under both Oregon and federal law, consumers must be at least 21 years old to purchase tobacco products and inhalant delivery systems.
Officials with the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) say the change is designed to address the growing popularity of nicotine pouches and other emerging nicotine products among young people. Oral nicotine pouches have become the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. tobacco market, and in 2024 they were the second most commonly used tobacco product among middle and high school students nationwide.
Many of these products are sold in flavors such as cool mint, citrus burst, refreshing chill and wild berry, which public health officials say can appeal to younger consumers. According to a national study cited by OHA, 80% of youth who have used tobacco products began with flavored products.
“Tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable disease and death in Oregon, accounting for approximately 8,000 deaths each year,” said Sarah Wylie, manager of OHA’s Tobacco Retail License Program.
“SB 1571 is a significant step in responding to the shifting tobacco retail landscape and the emergence of new and addictive nicotine products,” Wylie said. “As the tobacco industry continues to introduce these products designed to appeal to new consumers, public health policies must evolve to keep pace and ensure communities are protected from emerging health risks.”
A statewide assessment conducted by OHA’s Tobacco Prevention and Education Program between January and July 2025 examined tobacco availability, advertising and marketing practices at 1,147 retail outlets across Oregon. The survey found that 65% of tobacco retailers offered price promotions, including 43% promoting oral nicotine products.
The assessment also found that Zyn nicotine pouches had the lowest advertised price among tobacco and nicotine products surveyed, averaging $5.60 per package. OHA officials expressed concern that lower prices could make such products more attractive to youth, who are often more sensitive to pricing.
Health officials note that nearly 90% of adults who smoke began before age 18 and that adolescents are particularly vulnerable to nicotine addiction because their brains are still developing.
Beginning June 5, oral nicotine products will be regulated similarly to cigarettes, e-cigarettes and other inhalant delivery systems. Retailers are being encouraged to review age-verification procedures and employee training programs to ensure compliance with the updated law.
OHA and local public health authorities will continue conducting undercover compliance checks, which will now include enforcement of the expanded tobacco product definition.
The agency also reminded Oregonians that free tobacco cessation resources are available through the Oregon Tobacco Quit Line, including counseling, nicotine replacement therapy and mobile app support for those seeking to quit nicotine products.
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