Why Labor’s ban on single-use vapes doesn’t add up

In a comment piece in The Sunday Examiner (April 28), Senator Helen Polley proudly said that Labor has banned single-use vapes. But they're not taking the same approach to cigarettes. Senator Polley is right to point out that the Gillard Government introduced plain packaging on tobacco - so why aren't we looking at similar laws for vapes instead of bans?

I've had loved ones who have used vapes to get off smokes. I've seen it work firsthand, and I know their story isn't unique. I firmly believe in adults having the ability to make their own choices, including buying a vape if they want to. No they're not good for your health, but neither is smoking, alcohol or coffee. I don't see the Federal Government trying to ban those things.

Regulating vapes would put money back into the government's piggybank and back into healthcare. Surely that makes more sense than creating an environment for black markets to grow.

Originally published in The Examiner on May 2, 2024.

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