Johannesburg Cabinet Approves Tobacco Control Bill

Sep.26.2022
Johannesburg Cabinet Approves Tobacco Control Bill
The Johannesburg cabinet approved a tobacco control act that may ban indoor smoking and strengthen health measures.

The Johannesburg cabinet has approved the submission of a tobacco product control bill to parliament, which may entail a ban on smoking indoors.


Image credit: RATTANAKUN TONGBUN/123rf.com.


If passed, the bill will replace the current Tobacco Control Act.


The proposed amendment was put forward amidst an ongoing battle between the government and some major tobacco industry companies.


Despite opposition from major corporations, the government is redoubling its efforts to revise legislation related to the tobacco industry.


The proposed bill suggests implementing a 100% smoke-free environment in indoor and limited outdoor areas, banning cigarette sales through vending machines, and placing greater emphasis on warning labels on cigarette packaging.


The latest bill submitted to parliament aims to reduce tobacco-related illnesses, disabilities, and deaths.


The cabinet stated that the bill aims to enhance the country's public health measures and align them with the World Health Organization's (WHO) Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.


According to a government statement, the bill has been extensively discussed and negotiated with the tobacco industry and civil society.


Statement:


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