Senate approves Bill to tighten tobacco regulations
The committee preserved the ban on advertising, online sales, and promotion of tobacco products, restrictions opposed by major companies, including British American Tobacco.
Tobacco producers and sellers are staring at stricter regulations after the Senate Health Committee approved a bill aimed at tightening control over tobacco and nicotine products. The move comes despite vigorous opposition from industry players, who have argued that the legislation is overly harsh and threatens business operations.
The Tobacco Control (Amendment) Bill, 2024, sponsored by nominated Senator Catherine Mumma, was cleared for further debate in the Senate after the committee, chaired by Uasin Gishu Senator Jackson Mandago, recommended minimal revisions.
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“Having considered the Tobacco Control (Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the submissions received thereon, the Standing Committee on Health recommends that the Bill proceed to the next stage of the legislative process,” the report stated.
The law seeks to regulate not just traditional tobacco products but also newer nicotine items such as pouches and electronic nicotine delivery systems, widely known as vapes.
Senator Mumma emphasised the necessity of the law, saying, “This is necessitated by the current situation where products have been introduced into the market and distributed without authorisation or understanding of their public health impact.”
Mandatory licensing for all individuals and businesses involved in the manufacture, storage, distribution, or sale of tobacco products remains a key requirement.
Dealers will also be subjected to additional county-level taxes on top of national levies, with sales confined to licensed premises, effectively ending street-level hawking.
The committee preserved the ban on advertising, online sales, and promotion of tobacco products, restrictions opposed by major companies, including British American Tobacco.
“Allowing such activities would make tobacco products easily accessible to youth and children,” the report said, reinforcing that these measures remain crucial for safeguarding public health.
The Bill further prohibits the use of flavours and additives like menthol, fruits, alcohol, herbs, and spices, citing their appeal to young people and potential to encourage misuse.
With the committee’s endorsement, the legislation now moves closer to becoming law, marking a significant victory for health advocates and a setback for the tobacco industry.
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