The French National Assembly took significant legislative steps on February 13, 2025, with its unanimous approval of a law banning disposable electronic cigarettes, commonly known as "puffs." This marks France as the second European country to implement such restrictions, following Belgium, aimed particularly at protecting young people from the potential dangers of vaping.
During the debates leading up to the law's passage, Michel Lauzzana, the rapporteur and proponent of the legislation, expressed his satisfaction, stating, "Finally, we are here!" Lauzzana emphasized the need to restrict the sale and distribution of these colorful, flavored e-cigarettes, which are often marketed toward youth.
The law prohibits the sale and free distribution of disposable e-cigarettes, which typically contain nicotine—a psychoactive substance known for its addictive properties. Lauzzana noted, "These devices mostly contain nicotine, which is highly addictive and poses health risks, especially to our youth." He referred to the academic studies underscoring the dangers these products pose to children and adolescents, who are being lured by the tobacco industry.
Nicolas Bonnet, another vocal supporter, added, "A study conducted at the request of the anti-tobacco alliance showed 15% of 13 to 16-year-olds have already used a puff," highlighting the increasing popularity of these products among minors.
The unanimous passage of this e-cigarette ban occurs amid broader discussions within the Assembly on various other legislative matters, including youth justice reforms. On the same day, lawmakers also discussed the historic movement toward reforming juvenile justice, with proposals to toughen sanctions against both delinquent minors and their parents.
Gabriel Attal, former Prime Minister and current deputy, spearheaded the reforms aimed at strengthening the legal framework for how the justice system handles youth crime. Speaking on the matter, Attal remarked, "Naivety kills. Blindness sacrifices part of our youth," emphasizing the government's determination to address youth crime more effectively.
The proposed juvenile justice legislation includes the introduction of immediate appearance procedures for minors aged 16 and older involved in serious offenses. This marks significant movement from prior leniencies often granted to young offenders, particularly for repeat offenders.
Opposition members expressed concern over the harshness of the proposed reforms. Socialists criticized the idea of penalizing parents as counterproductive, questioning the effectiveness of punishment as the primary means of preventing crime. "Do you believe punishing parents and locking up children will solve the problem of delinquency?" asked Sandrine Runel, representing leftist views against Attal's proposed reforms.
The legislative changes approved by the Assembly are geared not just toward punishment but also aim to shift the paradigm of juvenile justice to include more responsibility, not just for the minors themselves, but also for the broader family unit involved.
The discussions reflect deep concerns over youth behavior as well as the broader social responsibilities surrounding health, including matters like vaping and tobacco consumption. With the combined efforts of advocacy and legislative action, the National Assembly is on track to meaningfully reshape its approach to both tobacco-related products and juvenile crime.
Looking forward, the government plans to build on these legislative victories, including the additional focus on banning nicotine pouches, which also appeal to young consumers. Minister Yannick Neuder has made clear his intentions to introduce these measures swiftly as part of the broader legislative agenda on public health and crime prevention.
These recent actions suggest a widening consensus within the French parliament on the need to protect the future generations. The decisions made during these sessions may not only alter the course of legislative action but also serve as pivotal moments in public health and criminal justice reform.
France's legislative body is clearly setting the stage for much-needed changes, reinforcing the commitment to providing a safer environment for its youth, combating the rising tide of vaping, and addressing delinquency with renewed vigor. The future of these measures will be carefully watched as they navigate the pathways of French law and societal norms.