Discussion in the EU Regarding Open Air Smoking Prohibition
In a recent development, the German federal government, specifically the Bundesrat (Federal Council), has found itself at the centre of a heated debate over outdoor smoking bans. The European Parliament has proposed a comprehensive ban on smoking at almost all public places, with the aim of reducing Germany's smoking rate to less than 5% by 2040.
However, the Bundesrat has rejected the EU Commission's proposal. The German federal government is currently responsible for implementing and deciding on such measures, and it seems they are not in favour of the EU's initiative. The Bundesverband der Tabakwirtschaft, a tobacco industry association, has called on the federal government to reject the European Parliament's smoking ban initiative.
It's worth noting that taxes make up a significant portion of the price of a pack of cigarettes in Germany. Approximately 61.5% of the cost of a pack of cigarettes goes directly to the government in taxes. This equates to around 5.35 euros out of an 8.70 euro pack. The German government generates a substantial amount from tobacco taxes, approximately 14.7 billion euros per year, from the estimated 70 billion cigarettes consumed annually in the country.
The proposed ban would extend to various public spaces, including parks, Christmas markets, beer gardens, terraces, bars, public buildings, and beaches. The concern here is the impact on non-smokers, particularly pregnant women and children, who are at risk from secondhand smoke.
The EU Parliament's aim is clear: to protect public health and reduce the harm caused by smoking. However, the German federal government's stance, as of now, seems to be one of caution and careful consideration, as they weigh the potential economic and social implications of such a ban. The debate continues, and it remains to be seen how this situation will unfold.
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