MEPs to Vote on Smoking Ban, Including Regulation of New Tobacco Products

According to Euractiv's report on November 25th, a bipartisan group of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) are drafting a resolution on smoke-free and aerosol-free environments. The resolution is set to be voted on November 28th. On the 27th, the European Parliament will hold a full debate on the issue.

According to the disclosed documents, lawmakers primarily want to urge member countries to "extend public smoking bans to new and emerging products such as heated tobacco, e-cigarettes, and other aerosol-emitting products".

The draft proposes to expand the smoking ban to major outdoor areas, including outdoor restaurants, cafes, workplaces, and areas around medical facilities, educational institutions, care facilities, and public transportation facilities, such as bus and tram platforms, as well as train stations. Train platforms, airports, entertainment areas, and other crowded areas will also be included in the rule.

The draft also recommends for the committee to conduct research and encourage studies on the risks of second-hand exposure to heated tobacco and aerosol substances (including emissions from e-cigarettes). The document also emphasizes the necessity of combating the sale of illegal e-cigarette products, stating that "the committee and member states should commit to stricter measures.

Members of Parliament also expect the committee to provide funding for member states to implement health policies, and call on the committee to submit a report to the European Parliament and Council no later than four years after the resolution is passed on the progress and implementation of parliament recommendations in EU countries.

Future Health Commissioner Olivér Várhelyi confirmed during a hearing that relevant committees have already begun preparing to revise directives on tobacco products, tobacco taxation, excise duties, and tobacco advertising.