Ontario government banning vape ads at convenience stores and gas stations

Oct 25 2019, 3:34 pm

Following months of an increase in vape-related deaths and illnesses, the Ontario government says it’s taking steps to protect youth from the dangers of vaping by banning advertisements for the products at convenience stores and gas stations.

Starting January 1, 2020, the promotion of vapour products in retail stores will only be permitted in specialty vape and cannabis retail locations, which are only open to people aged 19 and over.

“Restricting the promotion of vapour products in retail stores will help prevent youth from being exposed and influenced by promotion in retail settings,” said Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health.

“This is just one way our government is taking action to protect young people in Ontario.”

The provincial government says these new changes follow consultations with stakeholders — including experts, communities, and families concerned with youth vaping and the promotion of vapour products — as well as new and emerging research from health experts that indicate vaping among Ontario’s youth is on the rise.

“Vaping is not without risk, and the potential long-term effects of vaping remain uncertain,” said Elliott.

“As we continue to engage with experts and families to identify further action we can take to protect our youth, this first step will help begin to curb the alarming increase in young people vaping.”

According to the government, this regulatory amendment will align rules for in-store promotion of vapour products with those for tobacco under the Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017, bringing Ontario in line with seven other Canadian provinces with similar restrictions.

Ainsley SmithAinsley Smith

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