From Reflection to Action: Youth Council Prepares for 2026 Legislative Session

The Coalition for a Tobacco-Free Hawai‘i (CTFH) Youth Council recently convened for its annual Policy Debrief and 2026 Policy Priority Selection meeting, bringing together 13 passionate student leaders from across Hawai‘i. Representing Punahou, Kamehameha Schools Kapālama, Seabury Hall, Kohala High School, Baldwin High School, and Kailua Intermediate School, students gathered to reflect on past policy efforts, explore new ideas, and set the course for the year ahead.

The meeting offered a space for open dialogue and strategic planning, laying critical groundwork for the Youth Council’s next wave of advocacy.

A highlight of the session was a visit from Chelsea Okamoto, Deputy Attorney General for the Tobacco Enforcement Unit. Chelsea offered valuable insight into the legal landscape of tobacco control and the unique role the Department of the Attorney General (AG) plays in shaping public health policy. While the AG’s office remains neutral on most bills, Chelsea noted that tobacco legislation is a rare exception—one where the office may offer legal guidance or even provide testimony.

She also emphasized the importance of state-level action, especially in light of the recent federal setbacks. With the dismantling of the FDA and CDC tobacco units, Chelsea urged Youth Council members to continue advocating for strong, proactive state policies to fill the growing regulatory gap. 

After hearing from Chelsea, Youth Council members engaged in thoughtful discussion around the potential policy priorities for 2026. Among the options were: 

• Ending the sale of flavored tobacco
• Supporting public health-oriented registry bills, which would establish lists of tobacco products that can are allowed to be sold within the state
• Limiting nicotine levels in tobacco products
• Restoring county authority to regulate tobacco
• A generational tobacco ban, which would restrict the sale of tobacco products to anyone born after a certain date

The Council reflected on the ongoing challenge of advancing bills to end the sale of flavored tobacco, which has been their policy priority for the past seven years. While this policy has faced repeated obstacles in the legislature, members expressed continued commitment to finding new strategies and allies to combat the youth vaping epidemic.

Ultimately, the Youth Council decided to pursue a ban on disposable e-cigarettes and restore the counties’ authority to regulate the sale of tobacco. Their final policy selections reflect a mix of lived experience, collective insight, and unwavering dedication to improving the health of Hawai‘i’s youth. The Youth Council is energized and ready to turn reflection into action as they prepare for the 2026 legislative session.