Spain Cracks Down on Smoking & Vaping with New Bans
Spain is intensifying its efforts to curb tobacco and nicotine use, with both regional and national governments introducing stricter regulations. A regional government in the Balearic Islands is drafting a new addictions law that would subject vaping devices to the same legal restrictions as traditional tobacco products. This move aims to address the growing normalization of vaping among children and teenagers.
Health Minister Manuela GarcÃa warned that vaping can be a gateway to tobacco use for young people and cited severe health risks, including vaping-related pneumonia. The proposed legislation seeks to intervene early, recognizing that childhood and adolescence are critical stages for preventing long-term addiction. This comes alongside a ban on the sale of energy drinks to minors.
Nationally, smokers across Spain are facing expanded smoke-free zones. New legislation is set to ban smoking on bar and restaurant terraces, closing a loophole that persisted after indoor bans were enacted. Restrictions are also extending to public swimming pools, bus shelters, playgrounds, and university campuses. A 15-meter no-smoking perimeter will be established around hospitals, schools, and social centers.
Furthermore, the government has raised cigarette prices by 25 cents per packet, bringing popular brands to around €6.25. Penalties for violating these new rules are severe, with fines potentially reaching up to €600,000 in serious cases. Businesses will be mandated to display clear signage about the bans, facing penalties for non-compliance.
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