New Zealand Abandons World-First Smoking Ban, Sparks Backlash from Health Experts
New Zealand's new government plans to scrap the country's groundbreaking law that would have banned smoking for future generations in order to fund tax cuts. The law, which aimed to prevent smoking-related deaths and save healthcare costs, included measures such as raising the smoking age and reducing the availability of tobacco products. Public health officials warn that this reversal could cost thousands of lives and have a particularly devastating impact on Māori communities, who have higher smoking rates. Critics argue that the move prioritizes economic interests over public health.