Smoke Signals: An Analysis of Policies to Reduce Hookah Use Among Adolescents in Washington State

Abstract

This paper analyzes three policy options aimed at decreasing the prevalence of hookah use among youth: (1) banning commercial hookah venues in Washington State (WA); (2) increasing the minimum age for purchase, possession, and sale of tobacco products from 18 to 21 years of age; and (3) increasing the state excise tax on pipe tobacco to equal that of the state excise tax on cigarettes. These policy options were analyzed using three criteria: (a) the predicted reduction in the prevalence of hookah use among twelfth graders; (b) the fiscal impact on WA State; and (c) the political feasibility. Based on the analysis, it is recommended that WA State increase the minimum age for purchasing tobacco to 21 years of age.