Vaping products have been available in Canada for over five years now, and even still in the current landscape, there doesn't exist very many regulations around vaping.
There are many different vaping devices, one example being the e-cigarette that produces vapour for inhalation and can be purchased in different flavours, and even with or without nicotine.
In order to catch up, the government has introduced Bill S-5 which has passed a first reading in the House of Commons which took place on June 15. The bill is embraced by advocates, as it creates a regulatory framework for products including quality control provisions and banning sales to minors. However, there is a clause with which they are concerned about. The clause in question restricts the promotion of vaping products that will compare the health effects to those of tobacco products.
Industry advocates say that the consumer benefits from being given the comparative information at the point of sale, and if the bill is passed, it will limit the amount of phrases vaping companies can use when comparing their products with tobacco. Essentially, the companies may have to provide somewhat of a information pamphlet educating consumers on the risks of vaping and smoking without promoting one over the other.
With more support after the bill is passed, vaping may be able to overtake tobacco and become a less harmful replacement. Bill S-5 will allow for regulation, safer products, and that even the manufacturers of these vaping products are providing proper products to consumers and following proper practices.
If the bill receives the Royal Assent, Health Canada will still need to develop specific vaping regulations.
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