The province of Alberta is working on implementing stricter rules around vaping, which will fall in line with the rules already in place for smoking and the use of tobacco.

The provincial government says that there is evidence which revels the immediate and long-term health risks associated with vaping. They say that there are damaging factors associated with the intake of nicotine and other chemicals found in vaping products.

Bill 19, is the Tobacco and Smoking Reduction Amendment Act, and it aims to reduce the use of both tobacco and vaping products in the province, particularly amongst youth. Anyone wanting to purchase vaping products will need to be at least 18 years of age.

Additionally, Bill 19 would mean more changes to the sales and availability of vaping products; to make it harder to access them. Store displays would have to align with those in place for the sale of tobacco, and vape products would not be available for purchase in pharmacies, health facilities or vending machines.

If the legislation is passed, vaping would no longer be allowed in the following places:

  • School properties
  • Child care properties
  • Hospital properties
  • Playgrounds
  • Sports or playing fields
  • Public outdoor pools or splash pads/parks
  • Skateboard or bicycle parks
  • Outdoor theatres
  • Zoo

Alberta's Minister of Health, Tyler Shandro says that keeping highly addictive vape products out of the hands of youth is a priority for both himself as well as the provincial government.