Colombian Congressman Vaping During Debate Sparks Controversy, President Petro Criticizes

Colombian congressman vaping during debate sparks controversy, President Petro criticizes

The President of Colombia criticized members of Congress for using e-cigarettes during debates, stressed that e-cigarettes may pose health risks, and called for strengthening health education and compliance with the e-cigarette ban.

According to El Pais on December 22, the incident of Cathy Juvinao, a member of the Colombian House of Representatives, using e-cigarettes during the debate on health care reform has caused widespread criticism. President Petro also expressed his views on this.

He forwarded the news on the social platform X and commented: "Many scientific associations have called for a ban on these smoking devices. E-cigarettes can cause water to enter the lungs and may cause death. In the preventive health system, health habit education in schools is an important tool to ensure a good life."

President Petro responded to the incident of congressmen smoking e-cigarettes in X | Source: X official website

It is reported that on May 15, President Gustavo Petro signed Bill No. 2354, which stipulates the use and sales standards of e-cigarettes in the country and stipulates the conditions for the use of e-cigarettes and e-cigarettes in Colombia. The new law prohibits the use of such products in closed areas of the workplace and/or in public places.