Brazil Pará State Passes Bill Banning E-Cigarettes

State deputies at the Legislative Assembly of Pará (Alepa) in Belém took a decisive step towards curbing the use of electronic cigarettes, also known as vapers, by approving Bill (PL) No. 213/2022 on Tuesday (13). State deputy Fábio Freitas (Republicans) proposed the bill, which strictly prohibits the use, sale, import, and production of any electronic smoking devices (DEF) intended to replace traditional cigarettes.

Strict Penalties and Enforcement Measures

The new legislation imposes a substantial fine of R$1,144.55 on individuals who violate the law. It also requires commercial establishments to display prominent notices on their walls, clearly stating that smoking is prohibited within the premises and that violators may face penalties. These notices must be placed in highly visible locations and include the contact information for the health surveillance department, the Consumer Protection and Defense Department (Procon), and the Sespa reference center for approaching and treating smokers.

Security personnel now have the authority to request that individuals who refuse to comply with the ban and continue to use electronic smoking devices in commercial establishments leave the premises. Repeat offenders face even harsher penalties, with the fine amount doubling for each subsequent infraction and an additional 50% increase for each new violation.

Strong Support from Government and Medical Associations

The ban on electronic cigarettes has received strong support from both government agencies and medical associations. The National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) has issued warnings about the significant health risks posed by these products, as the vapor emitted contains several toxic and carcinogenic substances that can harm both users and those passively exposed to the vapors.

The Brazilian Association of Doctors (AMB) has also endorsed the ban, emphasizing the potential of these devices to attract young users and encourage the habit of smoking. Proponents of the bill argue that while electronic cigarettes have gained popularity as a supposed alternative for smokers seeking to quit, they still produce inhalable vapor containing nicotine and have contributed to the normalization of smoking, especially among younger generations.

Governor’s Approval Pending

With the bill having passed through the Legislative Assembly, it now awaits the state government’s approval before it can come into effect. Governor Helder Barbalho (MDB) has approximately 30 days to sign the bill into law. If approved, the ban on electronic cigarettes in Pará will represent a significant step forward in the fight against smoking and the promotion of public health.

As the use of electronic cigarettes continues to rise, particularly among young people, the actions taken by the Pará state deputies serve as an example for other states and the federal government to consider similar measures to protect the health and well-being of their citizens.

News Source: Deputados aprovam projeto de lei que proíbe uso e venda de cigarros eletrônicos no Pará

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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.