In a move aimed at protecting public health, especially that of Mexico’s youth, lawmakers in the country’s lower house have overwhelmingly approved a constitutional amendment to ban e-cigarettes, vaping devices, and synthetic drugs such as fentanyl. The proposal, which was sent to Congress by former President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador before he left office this year, targets these products because of their potential harm to health.
According to federal data cited by lawmakers, less than one million people from ages 12 to 65 reported regularly using e-cigarettes in 2022. Among this number are around 500,000 teens and 300,000 adults. The reform also sanctions the production, distribution, and sale of toxic substances, chemical precursors, and illicit use of fentanyl.
The measure passed with 410 votes in favor and only 24 against, signaling a strong commitment to public health over economic interests. As Workers’ Party lawmaker Mary Carmen Bernal noted, “We value girls’, boys’, and young people’s right to good health above economic and political interests.”
However, not all lawmakers support the ban on fentanyl and vaping in the same reform. Opposition legislator Ector Jaime Ramirez believes that this move is excessive and trivializes efforts to combat more dangerous drugs.
The reform will now head to the senate for further review, where the ruling Morena party and its allies hold a strong majority. If passed, it would bring Mexico’s laws in line with other countries that have already banned these products.
Source: Reuters
