The Morena parliamentary group in Mexico's Chamber of Deputies has clarified that proposed reforms to the General Health Law, aimed at a total ban on the manufacture, distribution, and use of electronic cigarettes and vapes, will not involve jail time for consumers. This statement comes ahead of a plenary discussion on the reforms, debunking recent rumors that young people or users caught vaping could face detention.
Ricardo Monreal, Morena's coordinator, emphasized that the initiative strictly reserves severe sanctions for those who manufacture, market, or sell these electronic devices. He stated it is "false" that vape consumption implies prison. Instead, the approach towards users will focus on warnings ("apercibimientos"), awareness, and information campaigns. This strategy aims to address the significant rise in vape usage among children and adolescents across the country without criminalizing individuals who may lack adequate guidance.
Monreal highlighted that while the health impacts of e-cigarettes are growing and require preventive action, the goal is public health protection through education. "No consumer will face deprivation of liberty sanctions," he insisted. The legislative effort prioritizes shutting down the commercial supply chain while educating the public on the risks associated with vaping.
