Australia to Ban , Recreational Vaping.
AP reports that Australian Health Minister
Mark Butler made the announcement on May 2.
This is a product targeted at our kids. Vaping has become the No. 1 behavioral issue in high schools, and it’s becoming widespread in primary schools. This must end, Mark Butler, Australian Health Minister, via statement.
Vapes contain more than 200 chemicals that do not belong in the lungs. Some of the same chemicals you will find in nail polish remover and weed killer, Mark Butler, Australian Health Minister, via statement.
Vapes will still be allowed for
therapeutic use with a prescription.
In addition to banning recreational vapes, the government will attempt to hinder the black market by updating product standards.
Examples include limiting flavors and colors, as well as requiring "pharmaceutical-like packaging," AP reports.
Nicotine concentrations and volumes will be reduced, and single-use vapes will be banned. .
Additionally, the country's tobacco tax will increase by billions of dollars throughout the next four years. .
A public health campaign will also be implemented to deter Australians from starting vaping and encourage current vapers to quit.
AP reports that government statistics
indicate that only 11.2% of Australians
age 15 and up were smokers in 2019