Hāpai Te Hauora backs legislative progress on E-cigarettes

Hāpai Te Hauora backs legislative progress on E-cigarette availability

Today the Ministry announced changes which will improve the quality of E-cigarettes available in New Zealand and increase access to these successful smoking cessation products.

"We're thrilled that the Ministry has decided to take this positive step in tobacco harm reduction" said Zoe Hawke General Manager for the National Tobacco Control Advocacy Service. "The international evidence on the role of E-cigarettes in supporting smoking cessation is accumulating and its important that New Zealand looks at the most effective way to include E-cigarettes in tobacco harm reduction initiatives to advance SmokeFree 2025. As well as wanting improved access to E-cigarettes, we want quality nicotine e-juice available everywhere . The suggested changes announced today will help to remove barriers to quality products from the market."

This development will go to the Health Select Committee for input on appropriate controls. Suggested changes included age restrictions, compliance with smokefree areas and other existing local government tobacco control initiatives.

Hāpai will be supporting community groups to provide feedback. Contact us at hauora@hapai.co.nz if you want to be involved.

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