This Thursday, the Portuguese parliament is debating a tobacco law that equates traditional consumption with heated consumption and tightens measures against automated vending, including a ban on outdoor smoking near schools, colleges and hospitals.
One of the major pieces of legislation passed from the first legislative session to the current one, the law that caused controversy in the PS Parliament and continues to be the subject of much criticism, is part of a “very ambitious program” that will later include measures to help those who want to quit smoking, Health Minister Manuel Pizarro said on Monday.
This Thursday afternoon, in plenary session, MPs will discuss legislation that will transpose European legislation and strengthen standards aimed at preventing and controlling smoking.
The government’s proposed legislation would make e-cigarettes the same as regular tobacco and place restrictions on their sale and consumption, specifically extending the ban on outdoor smoking within the perimeter of places accessible to the public for communal use, such as health care facilities or schools.
The new law also makes it impossible to create new places designated for smoking in closed areas where this is still permitted.
For establishments whose premises are adapted to the current legislative procedures, the final elimination of smoke in enclosed spaces will only come into force from 2030, which will allow them to recoup their investments.
Earlier, from 2025, the ban on the sale of tobacco in places where smoking is prohibited will be extended, and the places where the installation of vending machines is allowed will be redefined.
Immediately, if the proposal is approved by the Assembly of the Republic, it will no longer be possible to sell tobacco directly or through vending machines in places such as restaurants, bars, concert halls and venues, casinos, bingo, gaming halls, fairs, exhibitions.
With this proposed legislation, the Government is taking the opportunity to transpose into national law the European Commission’s 2022 directive, which sets out the exemptions that apply to heated tobacco products.
Author: Lusa
Source: CM Jornal
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