Oregon Watchdog: Bill bans free non-cigarette tobacco product samples to minors

Oregon Legislature
House Majority Office

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 28, 2009
CONTACT: Michael Cox (503) 986-1904

House Democrats Vote to Decrease Tobacco Use by Minors
House bill would ban free samples of non-cigarette tobacco products

SALEM – House Democrats today voted to pass House Bill 2358, which would prohibit the distribution of free samples of non-cigarette tobacco products throughout the state. The bill was sponsored by Representative Carolyn Tomei (D-Milwaukie) and Representative Mike Schaufler (D-Happy Valley).

“Many studies have found that a ban on sampling is an effective way to keep kids from using tobacco,” says Representative Tomei. “This is an easy way to protect Oregon kids from the dangers of tobacco.”

Smokeless tobacco that is flavored and presented in colorful packaging is often marketed to young women. In rural Oregon, smokeless tobacco is heavily marketed to young men. Because these marketing techniques are not regulated, it is easy Oregon kids to obtain them.

“The free sampling of tobacco is not just a problem in the cities,” said Representative Arnie Roblan (D-Coos Bay). “Parents in rural Oregon have been fighting this type of marketing at fairs and rodeos for quite some time.”

In 2005, major tobacco companies spent more than $13 billion to promote tobacco products; many marketing efforts directly reach children. Currently the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that at least 26% of high school students use some form of non-cigarette tobacco.

“As the father of a 15 year-old girl, and as a State Representative, I am committed to keeping these products out of the hands of minors,” said Rep Schaufler.

The bill passed on a 49-11 vote, with all 36 Democrats voting in favor. HB 2358 now moves to the Senate.
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