Wed Sep 25 02:29:23 UTC 2024: ## WA to defy Federal Government on Vape Sales, Pharmacists Unwilling
**Perth, Australia** – Despite the Federal Government’s decision to allow over-the-counter sales of vapes in pharmacies starting next week, Western Australia is pushing back, intending to maintain its current prescription-only requirement for nicotine e-cigarettes.
Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson has announced the state’s plans to override the federal legislation, citing concerns about the health risks associated with vaping, and a lack of support from pharmacists and medical professionals. “Pharmacists don’t want to be selling vapes,” Ms. Sanderson stated, adding that few doctors are currently prescribing them.
The move comes amid ongoing concerns about the illegal sale of vapes in WA, despite the state boasting some of the toughest anti-vaping laws in the country. Only two retailers have been prosecuted for illegally selling vapes in the past two years, despite numerous inspections and seizures.
The WA government has also raised concerns about the lack of practical means for collecting and recycling vapes, leading to an increase in electronic waste in landfills.
The decision to override federal regulations follows similar plans by Tasmania, although WA’s regulations could be implemented sooner due to the use of government departments rather than parliamentary processes.
Despite these efforts, critics argue that WA’s strict regulations are unlikely to address the wider issue of illegal vape sales, particularly by organized crime groups.
The Pharmacy Guild of Australia in WA has also voiced its opposition to the federal changes, stating that it supports the prescription-only model for vaping.
While the federal government maintains that its laws are strong and world-leading, the debate over the accessibility and regulation of vapes is likely to continue.
First Piper 