Senate Bill suggests age limit for buying vapes

A new bill to regulate vapes and e-cigarettes has been presented in the Senate Standing Committee on Health. The aim of the bill is to control the sale and use of electronic nicotine products in the federal capital.

The bill was introduced by Senator Sarmad Ali and is called the Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems Regulation Bill. It proposes clear rules for the import, sale, marketing, and distribution of vaping products.

According to the bill, only people aged 18 or above will be allowed to buy vapes. The sale of e-cigarettes will also be banned within 50 meters of schools, colleges, and other educational institutions.

The proposed law treats vaping like traditional tobacco products. It bans the use of vapes in public transport, government offices, parks, and other public places. All kinds of advertising and promotion, including on TV, social media, and billboards, will also be prohibited.

To ensure safety, the bill sets a maximum nicotine limit of 40 mg per milliliter. It also requires child-resistant and tamper-proof packaging, along with clear health warnings. Online sellers will be required to use age verification systems before selling these products.

Under the proposal, violators could face fines starting from Rs. 50,000, with harsher penalties for repeat offenses and illegal sales. The Senate committee has started reviewing the draft, which will now be examined by relevant ministries before moving forward in the lawmaking process.

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