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By CHAT News Today

Focusing on youth

Government addressing rise and harmful effects of smoking and vaping

Jun 3, 2020 | 3:08 PM

EDMONTON – New provincial legislation aims to prevent and reduce the use of tobacco and vaping products, especially among youth, and help Albertans lead healthier, longer lives.

Bill 19, the Tobacco and Smoking Reduction Amendment Act, follows a review of the Tobacco and Smoking Reduction Act which engaged almost 10,000 Albertans and produced valuable recommendations to address the alarming rise in vaping among young Albertans, reads a government release.

Alberta is the only province without vaping legislation.

“This proposed legislation sends a strong message to youth, and anyone who thinks it is OK to supply them with vaping products – there will be fines for possession and consumption. Selling or giving these products to minors will have consequences,” said Tyler Shandro, minister of health. “Reducing health harms by keeping vaping products out of the hands of youth is a priority for both me and this government, and it’s what Albertans asked us to do.”

The proposed act specifically addresses youth vaping, and would add enforceable restrictions on the possession, promotion, display, sale and use of these products, in alignment with tobacco laws. It would also include the expansion of smoke and vape-free areas, especially at places frequented by children and youth.

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Along with individual harms, health costs for Alberta as a result of the use of tobacco products are estimated at $6 billion over the next four years.

Summary of proposed legislation

• Minimum age for purchasing, possessing or using vaping products would align with tobacco products (18 years and older).
• In convenience stores and gas stations, vaping displays, advertisements and promotion would need to align with tobacco restrictions.
• Aligning places where vaping and tobacco products can not be used will reduce confusion for the public and law enforcement. New places where vaping and smoking will not be allowed include: on hospital, school or child care properties and on playgrounds, sports or playing fields, skateboard or bicycle parks, public outdoor pools or splash pads, zoos and outdoor theatres.
• Restrictions on the locations of vaping product sales will align with tobacco restrictions, and include: health facilities, public post-secondary institutions, stores where pharmacies are located and vending machines or temporary facilities
• Alberta’s proposed legislation will establish the authority to consider restrictions on flavoured vape if it is not covered by potential federal legislation.