The Education Ministry says it’s planning to amend its regulations to classify e-cigarettes as narcotics, according to Suthep Kaengsanthia, the ministry’s permanent secretary.
The move aims to curb the increasing use of e-cigarettes among students. Schools nationwide have been instructed to take action against vaping on their premises.
But exactly which part of the ‘e-cigarette’ process that would be listed as a narcotic hasn’t been made clear in the current plans. The e-cigarette devices? Vaping liquids? The nicotine in the e-cigarette liquids?
“We have amended our regulations to classify e-cigarettes in the prohibited category of narcotic drugs. Punishment for students who bring e-cigarettes to school will be serious and equal to the penalty for possessing illicit drugs.”
The amendment is currently under review by the Council of State, with the new regulation expected to be enforced within the month. Further details are not currently available. Nor are the implications on other vapers and e-cigarette users in Thailand. Could they be arrested for using a ‘narcotic’?
In addition to the proposed delisting and ban, the ministry has launched a project to enhance school safety, involving collaboration with local police, public health offices and drug suppression agencies. This initiative aims to protect students from various social risks from the time they leave home until they return.
