Washington vape shops struggle with 95% nicotine tax as customers flee to Idaho

SPOKANE, Wash. — Washington vape shops are struggling after the state imposed a 95% wholesale tax on nicotine products that took effect January 1, 2026, with lobbyists racing against the clock as three days remain in the legislative session.

Michael Blanton, owner of Lilac City Vapor in Spokane, said the tax has devastated his business.

“Whatever we made last year was basically a loss because of the tax,” Blanton said…

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