Amsterdam’s VVD group has submitted an initiative proposal aimed at reducing vaping among school pupils.
It wants schools to be nicotine-free and proposes smoke- and vape-free zones extending 50 metres from primary and secondary schools.
The proposal follows an urgent letter from the Amsterdam General Practitioners Alliance and Amsterdam Rookalarm, which say vaping among young people is increasing.
The VVD says vaping has become normalised among both primary and secondary school pupils, prompting its call for measures around schools.
Enforcement and support
The party also wants stricter enforcement against the sale of illegal vapes, which are often flavoured and can be more addictive.
These vapes are often sold through social media, but also on the streets around schools.
To help young people stop vaping, the VVD proposes creating a single referral route where they can seek support.
The city council must approve the initiative for it to be implemented, and it is not yet clear whether it will win majority support.
Whether the VVD’s vape-free school zones become reality now rests with the city council, so it’s worth knowing how decisions get made in Amsterdam’s local politics.