Alberta government takes aim at vaping in updated rules

EDMONTON (660 NEWS) — After announcing a review of tobacco and smoking legislation in late 2019, the Alberta government has tabled a bill that takes specific aim at vaping.

Amid growing concerns around health problems from vapes, the rules seek to restrict access to youth, limit use outdoors, and reduce advertising.

“Vaping is not a harmless behaviour,” Health Minister Tyler Shandro said.

“Emerging research is demonstrating that smokers and vapers are more likely to experience severe symptoms if they contract COVID-19.”

Alberta already has some of the highest rates of smoking in Canada, with research showing a sharp increase in vaping use among students in Grades 10 to 12 from eight per cent in 2015, to 30 per cent in 2019.

Shandro said a lot has already been done to reduce smoking rates in Alberta through a combination of restrictions and education, and there is a hope there will be similar results through these rules.

It includes banning minors from possessing vaping products, restricting the display, advertising and promotion of vaping products, and expanding smoke- and vape-free environments.

There will be increased fines for those found to be contravening the rules, including anybody who supplies vapes or vaping products to people under 18.

Anyone who buys vapes should also expect to present ID before purchases if they look under 25-years-old, similar to rules in place for tobacco or alcohol purchases.

However, with these new rules, there is no appetite to ban vaping outright as Shandro said they still have to strike a balance.

“A balance between restricting the availability and promotion of vape products to our youth, while making them available to adult Albertans who are trying to quit smoking,” Shandro said.

There will be special allowances that still provide the right for adult-only vape shops to continue operating and advertising within their stores, as long as minors are not allowed.

The changes were drafted after considerable consultation with Albertans — including online surveys and in-person meetings — and various interest groups.

Shandro made it clear during a press conference that they did not meet with specific lobbying groups representing vape companies.

There are no immediate changes coming to expand bans on flavours of vape liquids or to further restrict the amount of nicotine in vapes, as the province is currently satisfied with federal regulations.

That said, there may be more changes in the future once public health officials have more time to devote to this issue instead of COVID-19.

“I’ve been asking a lot from these folks to be able to still have the legislation for the (Tobacco and Smoking Reduction Act) amendments to come in this session. I am thankful for them in accommodating that,” Shandro added.

Shandro said these officials will continue monitoring for new information on vaping and adjustments can be made further in the future.

For adults who vape, there will be fewer places to use them if the bill passes.

Smoke- and vape-free areas will be expanded to include hospital, school or childcare properties, playgrounds, sports or playing fields, skateboard or bicycle parks, zoos, outdoor theatres and public outdoor pools or splash pads.

It is hoped these methods will help de-normalize both smoking and vaping, and also brings vaping rules in line with regulations set in cannabis legislation.

Finally, Shandro added that businesses will be given time to comply with the restrictions on advertising as there will be a time period between the bill passing and proclamation, which is expected in the fall, where businesses can ensure they are aligned with the rules set out.

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