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Mexico's Cámara de Diputados Approves Ban on Vapeadores and Fentanilo with 410 Votes, 24 Against, No Abstentions on December 3, 2024

Dec 3, 2024, 08:59 PM

On December 3, 2024, the Cámara de Diputados in Mexico approved a constitutional reform to prohibit the production, distribution, and commercialization of vapeadores (vape devices) and cigarrillos electrónicos (electronic cigarettes). The reform received overwhelming support, passing with 410 votes in favor, 24 against, and no abstentions. This legislative action aims to protect public health and combat the illicit use of substances, including fentanilo (fentanyl). The reform will now proceed to the presidential sanction after being approved in its final debate. During the discussions, several legislators expressed concerns that the prohibition could lead to an increase in illegal markets and did not effectively address the consumption issue. Notably, some opposition members criticized the ban, arguing for regulation instead of prohibition, highlighting that such measures may not yield the desired results in curbing usage.