Last year, the provincial government of Ontario put on hold changes to the Smoke Free Ontario Act 2017, which included a ban on the promotion of vaping products, that were meant to come into effect on July 1, 2018.
Electronic Cigarette Trade Association (ECTA) President Daniel David, had pointed out that local lawmakers are recognizing the importance of regulating vaping differently than smoking. “We are optimistic that Ontario’s government will give us a chance to contribute to the development of new regulations that will benefit all stakeholders. Vaping should not be regulated like tobacco and we are thankful that they recognize the Smoke Free Ontario Act 2017 needs to be re-evaluated.”
However the Ontario Campaign for Action on Tobacco which includes the Canadian Cancer Society and the Heart & Stroke Foundation, had complained that proposed changes to the Smoke Act would allow the advertising of such products. “We strongly urge the Ford government to withdraw the proposal to allow unrestricted display and promotion of these products where kids can see them, often next to the candy, in retail stores,” said Michael Perley, the group’s director.
Ban on e-cig adverts outside vape shops
Subsequently, influenced by the current state of affairs in the US and an increase in teen vaping, last November Health Minister Christine Elliott. had announced a ban on the promotion of e-cigarettes, saying that she wants to protect young people from the effects of vaping.
The new regulations went into effect last month, and have brought vaping regulations at par with those for in-store tobacco advertisements. The amendment still allows the products to be promoted in specialty adults-only vape shops.
A flavour ban is on the cards
A spokeswoman for Health Minister Christine Elliott had pointed out that the government was planning to set in place more measures, but had not provided further details. “Ontario continues to review the research, trends and emerging evidence on the use and health effects of vapour products to inform future policy decisions,” said Hayley Chazan. “We expect to put forward additional regulations to protect youth in the new year.”
Meanwhile, a new measure under which convenience stores and gas stations will not be allowed to sell flavoured vaping products, and nicotine will be capped at 20mg per ml, has just been announced this week.
Read Further: Toronto Sun
