Mexico's Lower House passes proposal to ban E-Cigarettes and Vaping devices
Lawmakers in Mexico's lower house have approved a constitutional amendment that prohibits the use of e-cigarettes and vaping devices, alongside a crackdown on synthetic drugs, including fentanyl.
This decision reflects concerns about the impact of such devices on public health, particularly regarding the vulnerability of children to nicotine addiction.
Former President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador initiated the proposal, emphasising the need to protect the youth from the dangers of smoking alternatives.
This new reform, which passed with 410 votes in favour and 24 against, also targets the production, distribution, and sale of toxic substances and chemical precursors, as well as the illicit use of fentanyl and other unauthorised synthetic drugs.
Though e-cigarettes are currently available despite previous bans, this amendment aims to solidify restrictions against both vaping and synthetic drugs, which pose significant health risks.
While less than 1 million people in Mexico between the ages of 12 and 65 reported using e-cigarettes regularly in 2022, the prevalence of vaping among teens and adults remains significant, with around 500,000 teenagers and 300,000 adults reportedly using the devices.
"We value girls', boys', and young people's right to good health above economic and political interests," said Mary Carmen Bernal, a lawmaker from the ruling Workers' Party.
However, some opposition members, including legislator Ector Jaime Ramírez, criticised the reform for grouping fentanyl and vaping together, calling it an excessive approach that risks trivialising the fight against more dangerous substances.
The general sentiment among lawmakers calls for prioritising health over economic considerations, moving forward to Senate discussions with a strong majority in the ruling party.
