Mexico has taken a significant step towards protecting public health by introducing a groundbreaking constitutional reform that bans the production, distribution, and sale of e-cigarettes (vaping devices), chemical precursors, and the illicit use of fentanyl. The amendment, which modifies Articles 4 and 5 of the Political Constitution of the United Mexican States, has received the green light from the Permanent Commission of the Congress of the Union after gaining support from 22 state congresses.
Reform Tackles Respiratory Risks and Synthetic Drug Production
The reform, which now awaits publication in the Official Gazette of the Federation to come into force, explicitly prohibits:
- E-cigarettes (vaping devices): While the long-term health effects are still under investigation, respiratory risks are a significant concern.
- Chemical precursors: Substances used in the manufacture of synthetic drugs, contributing to the illicit production chain.
- Fentanyl (illicit use): An extremely potent synthetic opioid responsible for countless fatal overdoses worldwide.
Gerardo Fernández Noroña, Vice President of the Permanent Commission, declared after the approval, "We have fulfilled our promise to you, people of Mexico."
Broad Support from States Ensures Constitutionality
The reform garnered support from states such as Baja California, Campeche, Mexico City, Colima, Oaxaca, Puebla, Sinaloa, and Veracruz, fulfilling the majority requirement for the declaration of constitutionality. The measure responds to growing concerns about the dangers of these products, including the short- and long-term effects of vaping and the devastating consequences of fentanyl addiction.
The Permanent Commission, through its official X (formerly Twitter) accounts, announced, "The Permanent Commission declared the addition of a fifth paragraph to Article 4 and a second paragraph to Article 5 of the Political Constitution, which prohibit electronic cigarettes, vaping devices, and the illicit use of fentanyl." This action aligns with Congress's commitment to strengthening public health and combating the trafficking of dangerous substances.
Stricter Regulation and Sanctions Expected
The reform is expected to lead to stricter regulation in the manufacture and sale of these substances, with sanctions for those who violate the law. The effective implementation of this law will depend on the joint work between authorities and society as a whole.
Mexico's historic constitutional reform marks a crucial step in addressing the silent challenges posed by seemingly innocuous products and the devastating potency of others. By banning vaping devices and the illicit use of fentanyl, the country aims to protect its citizens from the grave health risks associated with these substances.
