The Ministry of Public Health (MSP) has decided to impose a fine on the National Party senator, Luis Alberto Heberafter having breached current regulations regarding the use of vapers in closed spaces, in this case, inside the Legislative Palace.
In Uruguay, the regulations governing the consumption of tobacco and related products in enclosed spaces are extremely strict. Since the implementation of Law No. 18,256 in 2008, the country has been a pioneer in promoting public health policies aimed at discouraging the use of tobacco products and protecting non-smokers from second-hand smoke.
This legislation explicitly prohibits smoking in all enclosed workplaces and enclosed public spaces, including government institutions such as the Legislative Palace. The president of the Senate, Beatriz Argimóndecided to transfer the fine to Heber so that it does not come out of the public treasury.
In May, it had already emerged that Heber was seen using vapes repeatedly inside Parliament. At the time, Diego Rodríguez, a member of the Uruguayan Tobacco Society He said: “I find it strange that people smoke in Parliament, where an example should be set.” He also criticised the fact that “we all pay the fine imposed on the Legislative Palace for Heber’s behaviour.”
🚭FINE ON THE MOVE
✔️The MSP decided to fine the Senate for the vaping of the white senator Luis Alberto Heber during a session of Parliament.
✔️In turn, the Senate initiated a file for the public complaint against the senator.
✔️The President of the Senate will transfer the cost of the… pic.twitter.com/jBMQVqWHcd
— Eduardo Preve (@EPreve) September 10, 2024
Anti-smoking legislation prohibits smoking in closed public places
The regulations have been expanded to include not only traditional cigarettes, but also other devices such as vapers or electronic cigarettes. Although these devices do not contain tobacco itself, They release aerosol into the environment that can be harmful to the health of people nearby.The law stipulates clear penalties for those who violate these provisions, with fines that seek to deter such behavior and promote a smoke-free environment for all citizens.
Vaping is as dangerous or even more dangerous than cigarettes
Vaping, although perceived by some as a healthier alternative to traditional cigarettes, allows the release of certain substances that can be harmful. Scientific studies have documented several adverse health effects of vaping.
A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that vaping aerosols can increase inflammation and oxidative stress in vascular cells, potentially contributing to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. This research suggests that despite the lack of toxic smoke, vaping is not harmless and could have long-term effects on heart health.
Another important study, published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicineindicated that the use of electronic cigarettes can affect lung health by altering the immune response of lung cells, which could increase susceptibility to respiratory infections and inflammatory diseases.
This evidence underlines the need to address misperceptions about vaping and strengthen existing legislation to protect public health. Many countries are already discussing the increasing use of vaping in public spaces where smoking is not permitted, as in some legislations this device falls into a legal loophole and is not technically prohibited.
