West Virginia lawmakers have passed legislation to allocate $2.9 million from the state’s $7.9 million settlement with Juul to youth tobacco prevention and cessation programs.

Key Highlights

• $2.9 million from Juul settlement to fund youth tobacco prevention efforts.
• House Bill 5691 passed the House 88–5 and unanimously cleared the Senate.
• Juul reached a $7.9 million settlement with the state in 2023.
• Approximately $3.3 million has been paid to date.
• About 28% of high school students in West Virginia reportedly use related products.
• Governor Patrick Morrisey must decide whether to sign the bill.

2Firsts, March 19, 2026

According to West Virginia Watch, the bill directs a portion of Juul settlement funds toward tobacco control and vaping prevention initiatives.

Under House Bill 5691, the state will make a one-time allocation of $2.9 million to support youth-focused prevention and cessation programs.

The legislation received strong bipartisan support, passing the House by a vote of 88–5 and the Senate unanimously.

Juul reached the $7.9 million settlement with West Virginia in 2023 over allegations related to marketing to minors. The agreement was secured by then–Attorney General Patrick Morrisey, now the state’s governor. Approximately $3.3 million has already been paid.

Public health advocates say the funding could have a significant long-term impact. According to the American Lung Association, West Virginia has the highest adult smoking rate in the U.S. at 20.4%, with lung cancer incidence also among the highest nationwide.

Advocacy groups have urged Governor Morrisey to sign the bill, stating that the funds should be used as originally intended—to address youth tobacco use.

The governor has five days to sign, veto, or allow the bill to become law without signature.

Image source: West Virginia Watch