Sa Eyes Stricter Tobacco Control With New Bill Deliberation

The South African Portfolio Committee on Health has announced a significant ramp-up in discussions around the Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill, Cape town Etc reports.

In a bold move, the committee aims to fast-track the deliberations, allocating additional meeting time over the coming weeks to ensure the swift finalisation of this pivotal legislation.

Committee chairperson Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo opened the proceedings with a commitment to maintaining a thorough, transparent, and inclusive process. 'We understand the significant public health implications of tobacco use and the emergence of electronic nicotine delivery systems,'

Dhlomo's remarks followed the completion of the provincial public hearings last month, during which the committee gathered a variety of perspectives from industry representatives, public health experts, civil society organisations, and citizens.

At the forefront of the discussions, the Tobacco Aware Group TAG provided the committee with detailed analysis and constructive recommendations aimed at bolstering the proposed legislation.