New smoking and vaping law changes coming into effect …

Changes under The Non-Smokers Health Protection Amendment Act (E-Cigarettes) to address the use of electronic cigarettes by minors will come into effect Oct. 1, Health, Seniors and Active Living Minister Kelvin Goertzen announced today.

“Electronic cigarettes have been growing in popularity over the past number of years, particularly with youth and young adults.  But, there is little conclusive evidence about the potential harm of long-term e-cigarette use,” said Goertzen.  “That’s why we are amending The Non-Smokers Health Protection Act to limit access to youth and place reasonable restrictions on these products while allowing access for adults wishing to use e-cigarettes as a smoking cessation aid.”

The Non-Smokers Health Protection Amendment Act (E-Cigarettes) received royal assent on Nov. 5, 2015.  The amendments will prohibit the sale of e-cigarettes and vapour products to minors.

They will also prohibit the use of e-cigarettes in enclosed public spaces and other places where smoking is prohibited with exceptions similar to those currently allowed for smoking and place restrictions on the display, advertising and promotion of e-cigarettes and vapour products.

“These restrictions are similar to those currently in place for tobacco and tobacco products,” said Goertzen.

Businesses that meet the definition of a vapour product shop in the act will be permitted to continue to allow consumers to test and sample products in-store for the purpose of a sale and use elsewhere.

For more information on the new measures, visit www.gov.mb.ca/health/tobacco/guide.html.