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Commentary: Vaping restrictions better late than never

New legislation introduced June 2
opinion

While many recent actions of the Jason Kenney UCP government have met with anything but unanimous support from stakeholders, plans announced to ban vaping among young people is a good move for Alberta.

Whether the new legislation will translate into fewer life-long smokers in the province, as its proponents hope, remains to be seen.

What is known is that as the last province in Canada to ban vaping by youth, Alberta is living up to the old adage that it’s better late than never.

Vaping involves inhaling aerosol vapour, sometimes containing nicotine, using a battery a powered e-cigarette or similar device.

The Tobacco and Smoking Reduction Amendment Act will make it unlawful for anyone under 18 to purchase, possess or use vaping products, and makes the sale of vaping products align with tobacco restrictions.

Health Minister Tyler Shandro says the ban has widespread support across Alberta.

“Reducing health harm by keeping vaping products out of the hands of youth is a priority for me and this government, and it’s what Albertans asked us to do,” said Shandro.

Lorrie Jess is the president of the Alberta School Boards’ Association.

“This legislation is long overdue and serves as an additional deterrent to limit young people’s access to harmful vaping products,” said Jess. “School boards across Alberta welcome additional restrictions that will keep our children safer and healthier at school and in their communities.”   

Action on Smoking & Health has also come out in support of the move to ban vaping by young Albertans.

Under the new legislation, vaping will be prohibited in playgrounds, sports or playing fields, skateboard or bicycle parks, public outdoor pools, zoos and outdoor places.

The fact that the new law does not include a ban on flavoured vaping products is something critics say is unfortunate and something that will need to be addressed going forward.

Nevertheless, this new legislation will protect Alberta’s young people from preventable harm – and for that the Kenney government should be applauded.

Dan Singleton is an editor with The Albertan

 


Dan Singleton

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