The Senate of the republic generally approved the reforms in which the Constitution prohibits the use of vaping devices and electronic cigarettes,as well as the illicit use of fentanyl.
In this regard, the PAN senator, Ricardo Anaya, accused that this ruling is “a monument of aberrations” and one of them is to place vapers and fentanyl on the same level of impact and damage.
He criticized that by placing the word “fentanyl” in the Constitution, they are using it “to send a message to Donald Trump” and accused the pro-government senators of being “hypocrites” as the Plenary “is clogged with vapers.”
He pointed out that with the ban that Morena proposed,they will leave the “entire market,probably up to 40 billion pesos. They will hand it over to the drug cartels, the organized crime of Tepito, the Sinaloa cartel and the Jalisco Nueva Generation, (who) today are the owners of the machines that vapers sell.”
The opinion determines that, to guarantee the right to protection of people’s health, the law will sanction all activities related to electronic cigarettes, vaping devices and other similar electronic systems or devices indicated by law, and also the production, distribution and disposal of toxic substances, chemical precursors, the illicit use of fentanyl and other unauthorized synthetic drugs.
It also specifies that the profession, industry, domestic or foreign trade, work or any other activity related to said substances is prohibited.
Vapes harm even if they are expensive
The senator from Morena,Lilia Margarita Valdés,highlighted that although there are senators who use vapes inside the Plenary Session,these are more expensive and somewhat limit the damage.
“If there are senators here who vape, they are, unlike the vapes used by children, expensive, ones that limit the damage a little, but in any case they are going to get sick, being senators is not going to protect them.” against the damage of those heated chemicals.”
He said that in the last Legislature they tried to regulate the use of vaping devices “and they didn’t let us.” He accused that the industry brought lobbyists and workers to the Senate “disguised as parents to say that we were against freedoms.”
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Interview: Understanding the Recent Senate Reforms on Vaping and Fentanyl Use
Published by Time.news | Editor: [editor’s Name]
In light of the recent Senate approval to amend the Constitution to prohibit the use of vaping devices and electronic cigarettes, alongside the illicit use of fentanyl, we spoke with Dr. Laura Martinez, a public health expert with extensive knowledge in substance regulation and harm reduction.
Q: Dr. Martinez, can you shed light on the implications of this new legislation concerning vaping and fentanyl?
A: Certainly. The recent legislative changes signify a major shift in how substances that impact public health are managed in the country. By prohibiting vaping devices alongside addressing the fentanyl crisis,the Senate is taking a strong stance on protecting public health. However, there are concerns regarding equating vaping with a risky opioid like fentanyl, which has proven to have devastating consequences on communities. This could undermine the gravity of the fentanyl issue.
Q: Senator Ricardo Anaya criticized this ruling as “a monument of aberrations.” What are your thoughts on his assertion?
A: Senator Anaya’s point raises an vital discussion about public perception and regulation. While both vaping and fentanyl can have harmful health impacts,they differ greatly in scale and context. Vaping, especially among young people, is a pressing health concern, but it may not warrant the same extreme measures as fentanyl, which is linked to a high number of fatalities. Balancing these concerns is crucial to formulating effective health policies.
Q: The legislation has been described as perhaps handing over a lucrative market to drug cartels. Can you elaborate on this concern?
A: Yes, this is a significant issue. By pushing legitimate vaping products out of the market, the government risks creating a vacuum that illicit producers—such as drug cartels—will fill. Senator Anaya mentioned a potential loss of up to 40 billion pesos tied to the vaping industry. This is problematic as it could lead to increased criminal activity and danger, contrasting the original intention of protecting public health.
Q: What do you think of Senator Lilia Margarita Valdés’ comments about the senators who use expensive vapes?
A: Senator Valdés’ remarks about the hypocrisy of senators using vapes themselves is quite telling. It highlights a potential disconnect between legislative actions and personal behavior. While more expensive vapes might claim to limit damage, they still pose health risks. This demonstrates a need for more comprehensive education on the risks associated with all vaping devices, irrespective of their price point.
Q: What practical advice can you offer to the public in light of these reforms?
A: Public awareness is paramount. People should educate themselves about the risks associated with vaping and seek out credible sources of information. Additionally, advocates for vaping regulation should focus on harm reduction strategies rather than outright bans. Creating spaces for safe usage and open discussions about these devices can help make informed choices.
Q: Lastly, how should policymakers move forward to best address these complex issues?
A: Policymakers should establish a balanced approach that distinguishes between the risks of vaping and the dangers of substances like fentanyl. Engaging stakeholders from various sectors, including public health experts, industry representatives, and community leaders, is essential for creating inclusive and effective policies.And importantly,continuous monitoring and evaluating the outcomes of these regulations will be vital in ensuring they serve public health rather than inadvertently empower criminal elements.
As we navigate these complex issues around substance regulation, staying informed and engaged is essential in shaping a healthier community for everyone.