French parliament unanimously backs proposal to ban single-use E-cigarette

In a unanimous decision late on Monday, French National Assembly embraced a proposition aimed at prohibiting single-use electronic cigarettes, expressing concerns that se devices foster detrimental habits among teenagers and pose a threat to environment.

proposal, championed by Health Minister Aurelien Rousseau and introduced by MP Francesca Pasquini last November, targets prevalence of inexpensive pre-filled disposable e-cigarettes, commonly referred to as "puffs," which have gained popularity among young individuals. Notably, se products come in an array of enticing flavours and often contain high levels of nicotine.

A gateway to severe diction?

Minister Rousseau emphasised that se single-use vaping devices serve as a gateway to severe diction, citing ir affordability, appealing fruity and sugary flavours, and compact size that makes m easily concealable, even from parents.

MP Pasquini echoed se concerns, highlighting risk y pose to youth. Co-sponsor Michel Lauzzana reinforced se sentiments by citing French National Acemy of Medicine's classification of disposable vapes as a "sneaky trap," particularly for children and teenagers.

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According to a report from Guardian, French Prime Minister Elisabeth Borne, who previously criticised devices for instilling "b habits in young people," threw her support behind bill, aligning with government's broer anti-smoking campaign.

Critics in parliament also underscored ecological ramifications of se disposable e-cigarettes, with Minister Rousseau labelling m as an "environmental calamity."

proposal, a significant facet of government's anti-smoking initiative, now proceeds to Senate for approval. Subsequently, it requires endorsement from EU Commission, which will evaluate wher a ban constitutes a "proportionate" solution to issue at hand.

Should commission grant approval, government aims to implement ban by September 2024. France's move against se single-use vaping devices follows comparable steps taken in Germany and Ireland, illustrating a growing trend toward dressing concerns regarding ir proliferation and impact.