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- cross-posted to:
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Reversal of smoking ban criticised as ‘shameful’ for lacking evidence
New Zealand is repealing the world’s first smoking ban passed under former prime minister Jacinda Arden’s government to pave the way for a smoke-free generation amid backlash from researchers and campaigners over its risk to Indigenous people.
The new coalition government led by prime minister Christopher Luxon confirmed the repeal will happen on Tuesday, delivering on one of the actions of his coalition’s ambitious 100-day plan.
The government repeal will be put before parliament as a matter of urgency, enabling it to scrap the law without seeking public comment, in line with previously announced plans.
There is also the impact on our healthcare system and our economy. Another albeit minor consequence compared to the other two is littering.
There are already laws against littering. And lots of things affecting our healthcare system and economy. Sports, processed food, alcohol
Comparing sports, processed food and alcohol is a false equivalence.
In any case, it’s not because problems exist elsewhere that we can’t solve this one. It’s also much easier to stop the damage by banning cigs like it was done in New Zealand (where thee age limit rises as the population ages) then to fix any of your other examples.
Sure, it’s much easier to force people to be healthy, if your goal is a healthier population. But it’s morally wrong. People should have the right to make unhealthy decisions.