NSW Passes Tough Laws to Shut Down Illegal Vape & Tobacco Shops

The New South Wales (NSW) Lower House has passed tough new laws, originally proposed by the Coalition in June, aimed at cracking down on the proliferation of illegal tobacco and vape shops across the state. The legislation introduces severe penalties and grants new powers to health authorities to shut down non-compliant retailers.

Under the new laws, NSW Health will be empowered to issue on-the-spot closure orders for up to 90 days for stores found selling illicit tobacco, which can be extended to 12 months with a court order. Furthermore, the legislation establishes harsh new penalties for the sale and possession of commercial quantities of illicit tobacco and vapes, with maximums reaching up to seven years’ imprisonment or a $1.5 million fine.

Leader of the Opposition, Mark Speakman, welcomed the government’s support for the Coalition’s proposals, stating, “Organised crime gangs cannot run NSW. These laws will shut down their illegal tobacco stores, cut off a money stream that funds their illegal activities and put them behind bars.”

Other Shadow Ministers echoed the sentiment. Alister Henskens highlighted the rise of these illegal stores in local communities, while Kellie Sloane emphasized the need to protect young people from being targeted with “cheap, dangerous products.” Gurmesh Singh noted that regional communities have been particularly affected by the violence, such as firebombings, associated with the illicit trade. The Opposition stressed that with the laws passed, the responsibility now falls on the government to ensure they are rigorously enforced.

• Read more: Australia: NSW Launches New Unit to Tackle Illegal Vapes
• News source: Tough illicit tobacco laws pass lower house

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Matthew Ma

Marketing at Ecigator

With over a decade of experience in the e-cigarette industry, Matthew Ma is a seasoned expert in both the manufacturing and usage aspects of vaping products. His extensive background has provided him with a deep understanding of the intricacies and evolving dynamics of e-cigarettes.

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