The LGA has hailed the passing of the Tobacco and Vapes Act as a “landmark moment for public health”.
The act will now result in the introduction of a smokefree generation. From 2027, it will be illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone born on or after 1 January 2009.
Among other changes, the act legislates for a retail licensing scheme, a ban on advertising and sponsorship of consumer nicotine products, powers to regulate flavours and packaging of vapes and nicotine, and powers to extend the ban on smoking in some outdoor public spaces.
Cllr Dr Wendy Taylor MBE, Chair of the LGA’s Health and Wellbeing Committee, said: “This is a landmark moment for public health and will help tackle the deep health inequalities caused by smoking.
“Preventing young people from ever starting to smoke is one of the most effective ways to improve health outcomes and manage future pressure on our health and care services.
“Reducing the appeal of vapes to children with tighter controls on flavours, packaging and promotion is an important step in addressing the concerning rise in youth vaping.
“The comprehensive licensing scheme for retailers selling tobacco and vape products will support councils to prevent underage sales and curb the illicit market.
“Councils must be properly resourced to enforce the new regulations, deliver stop-smoking services, and protect communities from harmful and illegal products.”