A Push for a Smoke Free Generation

You will soon see a major shift in Canadian public health policy. A new poll reveals Canadians overwhelmingly support strict rules to keep tobacco and vaping products away from the next generation.

According to a recent report by CTV News, an Abacus Data survey shows 76 percent of Canadians back a proposed law to ban tobacco and vape sales to anyone born from 2009 onward. Furthermore, 96 percent agree it is crucial to prevent children from ever starting these habits.

Local Advocates Take Action

The National Lung Alliance commissioned the poll. Members of the alliance recently presented the findings in Ottawa. This group includes NB Lung. Melanie Langille is the president and CEO of NB Lung. She joined the lobbying efforts on Parliament Hill to push for this legislation.

“We all convened on Parliament Hill to speak with MPs about our ask for a bold public health policy move, that we call a smoke free generation law,” Langille says.

Global Momentum

Other countries already have similar laws in place. The Maldives banned tobacco sales to anyone born after 2007. The United Kingdom recently passed legislation banning sales to anyone born after 2009. The UK law takes effect next year.

“So our thought is, why not Canada?” Langille asks. She explains the goal is to gradually increase the legal purchasing age. This keeps products away from youth and changes social norms over time.

“What we are not trying to do is force anybody to quit, or to make any changes to those who are legally purchasing and using these products today,” she says. “What we are asking for is basically a line in the sand.”

The federal government is currently reviewing the idea. Langille notes the recent poll numbers help their lobbying efforts.

“We are starting to see a little bit more openness and receptivity to the idea,” she says.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a smoke free generation law?

It is legislation that bans the sale of tobacco and vaping products to anyone born after a specific year.

What year does the proposed Canadian law target?

The proposed law targets anyone born from 2009 onward.

Will this law force current smokers to quit?

No. The law only prevents younger generations from legally purchasing these products. It does not affect adults who currently buy and use them legally.

Have other countries passed similar laws?

Yes. The United Kingdom and the Maldives have passed similar legislation to phase out tobacco sales for younger generations.