Tobacco Legislation Changes in Newfoundland Labrador

Tobacco Legislation Changes in Newfoundland Labrador

The Provincial Government is set to host a virtual public consultation session on Thursday, August 22, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon, to discuss potential legislative amendments concerning the purchase of tobacco and related products. This session follows an online questionnaire that provided an opportunity for public input earlier this summer.

The upcoming session will focus on several key topics, including:

  • Prohibiting the sale of tobacco to persons born after a certain date
  • Raising the legal age to purchase tobacco products to 21
  • Banning flavored vaping products
  • Implementing additional enforcement measures, such as prohibiting the sale of tobacco through vending machines

The Department of Health and Community Services recognizes that the peak age of smoking initiation falls between 15 and 17, with the likelihood of smoking initiation decreasing rapidly after age 16. As tobacco remains one of Newfoundland and Labrador’s leading causes of disease, disability, and death, placing a significant burden on the healthcare system, the department anticipates that reducing the accessibility of commercial and vaping products will further decrease the number of people who use these products.

Interested individuals can find more information on the proposed amendments to tobacco and vaping-related statutes at EngageNL. To attend the virtual session, participants must register by emailing their name and e-mail address to [email protected]. Registration is required and will close on Wednesday, August 21. The virtual session has a capacity of 40 people, and an additional session may be scheduled based on the level of interest.

The Provincial Government encourages all concerned citizens to participate in this important discussion and provide their valuable input on the proposed legislative changes, which aim to promote public health and reduce the harmful effects of tobacco and related products in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Press release: Registration Open for Virtual Public Consultation on Legislative Amendments Under Consideration on Tobacco and Related Products

Matthew Ma
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