Members of the Russian State Duma have introduced an amendment calling for a full ban on the sale and distribution of vapes and their cartridges, as well as stronger penalties for illegal sales and youth nicotine use. The proposal aligns with President Vladimir Putin’s public support for banning vapes nationwide.
Key Points Summary
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State Duma members submitted an amendment proposing a full ban on vape sales and cartridges.
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The proposal responds to President Putin’s initiative and aims to protect youth health.
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The draft ban will be reviewed during the second reading of the Retail Licensing Act for Tobacco and Nicotine Products.
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The amendment also increases penalties for illegal distribution and for inducing minors to use nicotine.
Details of the Proposed Amendment
According to RIA Novosti, several Duma lawmakers formally submitted the amendment, which seeks a complete ban on the sale, distribution, and circulation of electronic cigarettes and their cartridges. The proposal has been forwarded to the appropriate working groups for review.
Scope of the Ban and Legal Penalties
The amendment explicitly calls for prohibiting all electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), including vape devices and e-liquid. It also introduces stricter criminal liability for illegal circulation and for enticing minors to use nicotine products.
Review Process by Cross-Party Working Groups
The submitted documents are now under review by three cross-party working groups headed by Anna Kuznetsova, Pyotr Tolstoy, and Sholban Kara-ool.
Lawmakers Behind the Proposal
The amendment was jointly proposed by several influential Duma members, including:
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Yaroslav Nilov, Chair of the Labour and Social Policy Committee.
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Dmitri Gushev, First Deputy Chair of the Supervisory Committee.
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Yana Lantratova, Chair of the Social and Religious Affairs Committee and the Family and Maternal and Infant Protection Committee.
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Dmitri Svyashov, First Deputy Chair of the Sports Committee.
Statements Supporting a Nationwide Ban
Gushev reaffirmed the amendment’s focus on protecting children and national health, expressing confidence in gaining cross-party support. Lantratova criticised vapes as “a source of nicotine addiction disguised as fashion” and urged a full, uncompromising ban.
Alignment With Presidential and Government Policy
President Vladimir Putin has previously voiced support for a nationwide vape ban. Deputy Finance Minister Alexei Sazanov also indicated that the government has drafted measures enabling local authorities to impose retail bans on vapes.
