Russia: Call for Fines on Parents of Smoking Children

According to a report by Russian media outlet Nakanune on November 10th, the Russian Union of Nizhny Novgorod Product Industrial Enterprises (SPINI) has submitted a proposal to Vyacheslav Volodin, the Chairman of the Russian State Duma, suggesting a fine of 1500 to 2000 rubles (approximately $16 to $21) for parents of children who smoke.

At the same time, the association also issued corresponding appeals to its Vice President Pyotr and Chairman of the Duma Youth Policy Committee, Artem Metelev.

According to the drafters of the proposal, this would provide a legal basis for law enforcement agencies, educators, and the youth affairs committee to regulate e-cigarettes and protect minors from the harms associated with them.

Peter said, "The measures taken are not enough, but I am unsure if fines should be imposed on anyone other than those selling e-cigarettes to children." Mechetlov stated that he would not support the SPINI initiative. "Controlling this matter itself is extremely difficult, and punishing parents is excessive," the parliament member said. "In my opinion, it not only fails to solve the problem but also triggers more conflicts."

According to a report by Vedomosti, a representative of a parents' public organization believes that if such punitive measures are introduced, every parent will come under suspicion.