Parliament moves ahead with controversial Tobacco Bill, but MPs want amendments
South Africa's Parliament advances a Tobacco Bill regulating tobacco and vaping, but MPs demand amendments to clauses on smoke-free zones and vape restrictions.Summary
South Africa's Portfolio Committee on Health has voted to advance a bill regulating the tobacco and vaping industry, though MPs have attached conditions to their support. The bill, originally introduced in 2022, proposes penalties for selling to minors, bans on advertising and online sales, and the creation of 100% smoke-free zones. However, MPs from various parties, including the DA and ANC, have expressed concerns. The DA's Michéle Clarke argued that the bill's penalties are disproportionate and that the ban on disturbing neighbours in private dwellings is unenforceable. The ANC's Fisani Shibangu supported the bill, stating it is the government's duty to protect future generations from the tobacco industry's deceptive practices. The EFF's Naledi Chirwa-Mpungose called for a policy based on choice rather than criminalization. The Department of Health has indicated a willingness to adjust packaging rules for non-combustible products like vapes.
(Source：News24)
