Summary

King County has reached a settlement with Juul Labs, Inc. in the county’s case over youth e-cigarette use. The settlement will provide local resources to amplify programs that reduce and deter nicotine use among youth.

Story

King County has reached a settlement in its lawsuit against e-cigarette company Juul Labs, Inc. over youth vaping and nicotine addiction.

The settlement follows litigation that spanned over three years and is part of a global settlement with Juul Labs, Inc. resolving numerous cases brought by government entity plaintiffs, including school districts, cities, and counties.  

“There’s no higher priority than the health and well-being of our kids, and we can’t let the progress we’ve made be threatened by persistent youth nicotine use,” said Executive Constantine. “This settlement will support programs that prevent youth tobacco and vapor product use and provide resources for those already using these products to quit.” 

Resources from the settlement will help re-energize comprehensive tobacco prevention and cessation efforts locally, based on proven best practices. Activities will focus on changing policies, systems, and environments to deter tobacco use, tailored to community needs. Local partners and youth will engage in developing solutions, particularly in communities most affected by tobacco-related health disparities. 

“The investments we make from this settlement will pay off for lifetimes in less illness, suffering, and deaths from preventable diseases caused by tobacco and nicotine use,” said Dr. Faisal Khan, Director for Public Health – Seattle & King County. 

Juul Labs, Inc. is an American electronic nicotine delivery system company that produces the Juul electronic cigarette, which uses a heating element to convert a nicotine solution into an aerosol that is then inhaled by the user. 

These settlements do not release claims against Altria Group, Inc. or its related companies that are also defendants in the federal or state litigation. King County is committed to continuing the litigation against Altria.

Quotes

There’s no higher priority than the health and well-being of our kids, and we can’t let the progress we’ve made be threatened by persistent youth nicotine use. This settlement will support programs that prevent youth tobacco and vapor product use and provide resources for those already using these products to quit.

The investments we make from this settlement will pay off for lifetimes in less illness, suffering, and deaths from preventable diseases caused by tobacco and nicotine use.

For media inquiries, contact:

Public Health Information Officer, PHPIO@kingcounty.gov