MONTPELIER, Vt., Feb. 6, 2026 – Nearly 90% of smokers first try a tobacco product by age 18. But, if someone has not started using tobacco by age 26, they are likely to never start. Advocates from across Vermont gathered at the State House on Friday for a legislative breakfast hosted by Coalition for a Tobacco Free Vermont, where they called on legislators to pass S.198, legislation that would strengthen Vermont’s tobacco retail licensure laws and help prevent the sale of addictive and harmful products to young people.
The Legislative Breakfast coincided with National Wear Red Day®, a nationwide effort to raise awareness about cardiovascular disease—the leading cause of death. Advocates wore red to symbolize the need to protect heart health across the lifespan, beginning with preventing youth nicotine addiction.
The event was held amid growing concern about vaping companies targeting Vermont as a favorable market and the alarming rates of youth vaping across the state.
“Passing S.198 is a critical step in safeguarding Vermont’s youth and addressing one of the most preventable risk factors for cardiovascular disease,” said Tina Zuk, region sr. lead of state government relations for the American Heart Association Vermont. “Strong retail laws help keep addictive products out of kids’ hands and support healthier futures for families across the state.”
Throughout the morning, advocates met with legislators to share personal stories and discuss the urgent need to reduce youth nicotine use across Vermont. Discussions highlighted how nicotine addiction often begins in adolescence, increases the risk of lifelong tobacco use and contributes to serious long-term health consequences, including cardiovascular disease. Advocates also testified in support of the legislation at a hearing before the Senate Economic Development Committee. They emphasized that strengthening tobacco retail licensure laws is a key strategy to prevent illegal sales, limit youth access to nicotine products and protect the health of Vermont’s young people.
American Heart Association Heart Powered is our national grassroots network that builds on more than 40 years of nonpartisan advocacy in support of science-based public policies that drive progress toward the Association’s mission to create longer, healthier lives for all.
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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
