Washington vape shops struggle with 95% nicotine tax as customers flee to Idaho
A 95% nicotine tax in Washington state is causing vape shops to struggle and customers to travel to Idaho for cheaper products.Summary
Washington vape shops are facing significant hardship due to a newly implemented 95% wholesale tax on nicotine products, which took effect on January 1, 2026. Michael Blanton, owner of Lilac City Vapor, reports that the tax has essentially erased his business's profits. Customers are increasingly crossing the border into Idaho to purchase vaping products due to the higher prices in Washington. While convenience stores with diverse revenue streams are also affected, vape-only shops are experiencing a more severe impact, leading to layoffs. Lawmakers defend the tax as a measure to protect minors and discourage nicotine addiction, but industry representatives like Sara Stewart of the Washington Smoke Free Association argue it drives consumers towards more harmful tobacco products and harms small businesses. Despite lobbying efforts to repeal or amend the tax, all proposed changes have been rejected, and legal challenges are being considered.
(Source：Kxly)
