Oregon Senate Passes SB 1571 on Nicotine Pouch Regulation
The Oregon Senate passed Senate Bill 1571 (SB 1571) by a vote of 26–1, proposing to include nicotine pouches in the definition of tobacco products and explicitly prohibit their sale to individuals under the age of 21.
Key Points
- SB 1571 passed the Senate by a vote of 26–1.
- The bill includes nicotine pouches in the definition of tobacco products.
- It explicitly prohibits sales to those under the age of 21.
- It removes the previously proposed online sales ban clause.
- The bill has been submitted to the House of Representatives for further consideration.
Closing a Regulatory Gap in State Law
According to a February 22, 2026 report by Oregon Capital Chronicle, the legislation aims to address what lawmakers describe as a regulatory gap in state law regarding nicotine pouch products.
Expanding the Definition of Tobacco Products
The bill was introduced by Portland Democratic Senator Lisa Reynolds. It would redefine the legal scope of “tobacco products” in Oregon to include nicotine pouches. As a result, these products would fall under the same regulatory framework as traditional cigarettes and e-cigarettes, including the prohibition on sales to individuals under 21, aligning state law with federal standards.
Current Legal Status Creates a Loophole
At present, Oregon law does not classify nicotine pouches as tobacco products. This distinction allows some retailers to sell them without a tobacco retail license and with fewer restrictions on sales locations. Supporters argue this creates a regulatory “loophole” that makes the products more accessible to minors.
Concerns Over Youth Appeal and Discreet Use
During legislative debate, Reynolds noted that nicotine pouches are smokeless, odorless, and difficult to detect because they are placed between the teeth and lip. She warned that youth usage is increasing and could continue to rise without regulatory changes.
Research Indicates Rising Teen Usage
Supporters cited research from the University of Southern California indicating that the number of teenagers reporting nicotine pouch use in 2024 doubled compared with 2023. Advocates say the products’ discreet nature and wide range of flavors contribute to their popularity among young people.
Broad Support from Public Health Groups
More than 70 individuals and organizations submitted written testimony, including local public health departments and youth advocacy groups. Most comments supported regulating nicotine pouches in the same manner as cigarettes and vapes.
Revision Removes Online Sales Ban
The bill previously passed unanimously through the Senate Judiciary Committee. However, the final Senate version is less restrictive than the original proposal. An earlier provision that would have banned all online sales of tobacco products in Oregon and required in-person purchases was removed during revisions.
Next Step: House Consideration
SB 1571 has now been forwarded to the Oregon House of Representatives, where lawmakers will decide whether to advance the measure further.
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