The Senate Committee on Rules convened on April 21, 2025, to discuss Senate Bill 1198, which aims to strengthen regulations on vaping products in Oregon. The bill is a response to the evolving landscape of vaping and its impact on youth, building on legislation first introduced in 2015.

Senator Thatcher, one of the few members present who participated in the original legislation, highlighted the lack of regulations in 2015 that allowed minors to easily access vaping products. The initial law established definitions and restrictions around inhalant delivery systems, but recent court rulings have prompted a reevaluation of these regulations.

The Oregon Court of Appeals struck down a specific section of the existing law, leading lawmakers to seek new solutions. Senate Bill 1198 proposes to grant the Oregon Health Authority the authority to create rules regarding the packaging and marketing of vaping products, specifically aimed at protecting minors from the potential health risks associated with these products.

Senator Bonham noted that this bill aligns with similar efforts in the legislature, including House Bill 3724, which addresses cannabis regulations. Both measures seek to ensure that health authorities have the necessary tools to safeguard youth from the negative effects of inhalant delivery systems.

The committee's discussions underscored the importance of adapting regulations to keep pace with emerging health concerns related to vaping, particularly among young people. The next steps will involve further deliberation on the bill as it moves through the legislative process.