The French National Assembly unanimously adopted a cross-party bill on Monday, December 4, 2023, to ban the sale of disposable electronic cigarettes, known as "puffs," as part of the new national plan to combat smoking. The text must now go to the Senate and obtain approval from the European Commission, a process the government hopes to see completed by the end of next summer.
These inexpensive, colorful, and flavored non-rechargeable "puffs" offer a certain number of puffs with a nicotine level between 0 and 20 mg/ml, which "opens the way to strong addiction," especially among minors, according to Health Minister Aurélien Rousseau.
Attractive Features and Discreet Design Appeal to Youth
Deputies Francesca Pasquini (Green) and Michel Lauzzana (Renaissance) sponsored the government-supported text, which all political groups in the Assembly praised. "Their price is derisory, the fruity and sweet flavors are attractive, and the discreet design makes them go unnoticed by parents," lamented Francesca Pasquini, who introduced the text in November 2022.
Michel Lauzzana (Renaissance), the text's co-rapporteur, emphasized that "the National Academy of Medicine describes puffs as a 'devious trap for children and adolescents.'"
Concerns Over Gateway Effect and Environmental Impact
Health Minister Aurélien Rousseau warned that "one in 10 children aged 13-16 has already tried puffs," denouncing a "gateway effect towards smoking" and an "environmental scourge."
Deputies from all groups in the Assembly praised the initiative, which the 104 members present adopted. "Puffs are a time bomb for the health of our citizens," warned Paul Christophe (Horizons). "We must imperatively react," echoed Stéphane Viry (LR).
Rachel Keke, a deputy from the LFI group, called on "political leaders to set an example," in a remark aimed at the Prime Minister, who is often seen vaping in the chamber.
Tobacco Remains Leading Cause of Preventable Death in France
Tobacco remains the leading cause of preventable death in France, with 75,000 deaths per year. "These are not simply statistics; they are first names, lives, and broken and bereaved families," said Karl Olive (Renaissance) in the chamber.
As France continues its fight against smoking, the unanimous adoption of this bill to ban disposable e-cigarettes marks a significant step in protecting the health of its citizens, particularly the youth, from the dangers of nicotine addiction and the environmental impact of these products.
