Nicotine Tax Expansion: Lawmakers consider a new bill that would subject synthetic nicotine pouches (like ZYN) to the same tax rate as traditional tobacco products. HB 2033 could generate $132 million in revenue and aims to curb youth nicotine use.
Juvenile Prison Riot Charges: The Senate advances HB 1815, which would exempt juvenile detention center riots from “prison riot” charges—allowing some youth to seek resentencing. The bill has sparked debate over accountability and reform.
Workplace Witness Protections: HB 1934 seeks to protect the identities of complainants and witnesses in harassment and discrimination cases under the Public Records Act. The Senate passed the bill unanimously.
(4/8/25)