Iowa vape tax bill for pediatric cancer research heads to governor

DES MOINES, Iowa (Gray Media Iowa State Capitol Bureau) - Vape products in Iowa could soon be taxed to support pediatric cancer research.

House lawmakers passed the bill this afternoon, making it among the final measures to head to the governor’s desk before the legislative session ends.

The bill adds a 5-cent tax on vapes and nicotine pouches. About $3 million of the revenue generated would be directed to pediatric cancer research.

Republican and Democratic lawmakers were divided on the proposal, with Democrats arguing the bill does not provide enough funding to help children.

“We’ve been leaders in trying to tax tobacco at a rate that actually reduces tobacco use and actually saves lives, unlike our partners across the rotunda,” Iowa State Rep. Austin Baeth said. “I ask that we send a signal that we’re all in on fighting cancer for Iowa’s kids.”

Earlier this session, the House passed its own bill that would have raised $3 million every fiscal year for pediatric cancer research.

Some House lawmakers expressed frustration that the Senate did not pass that proposal and instead passed the version that House members debated today.

Republican Rep. Siegrist said passing this bill now ensures at least some funding moves forward.

“This bill will go to the governor today when we pass it. If we amend it, I don’t disagree with what you’re saying, the Senate isn’t gonna take it,” Siegrist said. “And we can talk all we want about the Senate’s pushing us around, I don’t care about any of that. I care about results.”

The bill now heads to the governor’s desk to be signed.

House lawmakers say they plan to pass more funding for pediatric cancer research next year.

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Isabella Warren covers state government and politics for Gray Media-owned stations in Iowa. Email her at isabella.warren@kcrg.com; and follow her on Facebook at Isabella Warren TV on X/Twitter@isabellaw_gray, and on Instagram@IsabellaWarrenTV.