The civic organizations behind the Nicotinee initiative propose banning the sale of nicotine products to individuals born after 2012 and suggest establishing a new regulatory body. The Dutch House of Representatives debated the proposal today.
While there was sympathy for the ambition, the generational ban on cigarettes and vapes did not receive broad support. Nicotinee proponents aim to raise the minimum age for nicotine products, currently 18, by one year annually starting in 2030, intending to create a smoke-free generation.
Lung specialist Wanda de Kanter explained the proposal, emphasizing its focus on preventing youth from starting smoking or vaping. Petitions rarely result in a full debate in the House; since 2006, it’s happened a few times, making today’s debate noteworthy.
Ultimately, only the CDA fully backed the proposal. Some parties acknowledged the need for additional measures but questioned its feasibility, including legal concerns.
Others, like PVV and BBB, dismissed it as overregulation. State Secretary Karremans appreciated the initiative but cited EU rules prohibiting bans on products available elsewhere in the EU and questioned the effectiveness of such a ban.
Karremans preferred strengthening the existing NVWA regulator over creating a new one. NSC and CDA proposed a motion to increase the purchasing age for nicotine products from 18 to 21, which received mixed responses.
The state secretary expressed interest in exploring its feasibility.
Source: NOS