BEAVERTON, Ore.—Nov. 2, 2021—Today, the Washington County Commissioners passed an ordinance to prohibit the sale of all flavored tobacco products, including menthol cigarettes and flavored e-cigarettes, making them the first county in Oregon to pass a flavored tobacco policy. The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) was one of the lead organizations on this effort. Jamie Dunphy, ACS CAN Oregon government relations director, released the following statement:
"Prohibiting the sale of all flavored tobacco products, including menthol cigarettes and flavored e-cigarettes, is critical to protect youth and other underserved communities from the harms of tobacco use. Big Tobacco spends more than $100 million each year to market their deadly products in the state. Mint, menthol and other candy and fruit flavors are a key part of their predatory marketing strategy to lure new young users.
"Data shows that menthol cigarettes and other flavored products like e-cigarettes are intentionally targeted at kids, communities of color and low socioeconomic groups. It’s clearly working, as youth report flavors as a leading reason why they use tobacco products. In 2021, more than 8 out of 10 youth who use e-cigarettes use a flavored one, and 95% of adults who smoke start before age 21.
"ACS CAN thanks Commissioner Nafisa Fai for urging the Board of Commissioners to remove all exemptions to this policy and Chair Kathryn Harrington and Commissioner Pam Treece for trusting the science on the dangers of menthol and other flavored tobacco products. We look forward to working with other local and state leaders to follow Washington County’s leadership so we can keep flavored tobacco products off store shelves statewide."
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