New Zealand Scraps World-Leading Smoking Ban for Tax Cuts
World-First Legislation to End Cigarette Sales to Those Born After January 1, 2009 Reversed
Public Health Groups Condemn Move as Betrayal of Future Generations
The New Zealand government has scrapped a landmark law that would have banned smoking for future generations in a move widely criticized by public health groups.
The Smokefree Environments and Regulated Products (Vaping) Amendment Bill, passed in 2022, was hailed as a world-first and would have prohibited the sale of tobacco products to anyone born after January 1, 2009.
However, the new government, which came to power in October 2023, has repealed the legislation as part of a package of tax cuts.
Anti-smoking advocates have condemned the move, describing it as a betrayal of future generations and a victory for the tobacco industry.
"This is a dark day for public health in New Zealand," said Dr. Janet Hoek, a spokesperson for the New Zealand Medical Association.
"This law would have saved thousands of lives and helped to create a smoke-free future for our country. Its repeal is a major step backwards."
The government has defended its decision, arguing that the tax cuts will stimulate the economy and create jobs.
However, critics argue that the long-term costs of tobacco-related illness will far outweigh any short-term economic benefits.
The repeal of the smoking ban is likely to face legal challenges from public health groups.
Comments