Parliamentary Research Branch

PRB 98-8E

Prepared by:
Mollie Dunsmuir, Law and Government Division
Claude Blanchette, Jean Dupuis, Economics Division
Nancy Miller Chenier, Political and Social Affairs Division
December 1998

Over the past several decades, North America has witnessed a revolution in attitudes to tobacco smoking. What was once considered a normal habit has become increasingly socially unacceptable. An ever-growing number of non-smokers are much less tolerant of smoking, and anti-tobacco health groups have become very vocal in their opposition to it. Governments and other organizations have become more receptive to lobbying efforts and are introducing bans and restrictions on smoking.

Since the 1960s, research has documented the health risks of tobacco smoking. Originally, the emphasis was on the danger to the smoker, but in recent years other concerns have arisen. Cumulative studies strongly suggest that non-smokers are at risk from inhaling environmental tobacco smoke (ETS). As well, an increase in youth smoking is becoming a focal point of government attention. Finally, international organizations have become more and more concerned with what the World Health Organization calls "the tobacco epidemic: a global public health emergency," and with the international perspective on tobacco abuse.

While most experts and governments accept the scientific and medical evidence of the dangers of tobacco smoke, changes do not come easily. Tobacco is a highly addictive product and many smokers find it difficult, and sometimes impossible, to stop using it. Manufacturers of tobacco products, who naturally minimize any tobacco-related health risks, are a powerful lobby group. Tobacco farmers can also be a strong regional interest. Government policies often reflect conflicting objectives since tobacco products bring significant tax revenues yet there is increasing concern about the rising costs of treating tobacco-related illnesses. Though higher taxes deter smoking, they can also lead to smuggling and other illegal activities.

In the past decade, governments have introduced a number of measures designed to reduce smoking. The federal government has enacted the Tobacco Products Control Act, the Non-smokers’ Health Act, and the Tobacco Sales to Young Persons Act. Most recently, Bill C-71 (now the Tobacco Act) received Royal Assent in 1997. As well, provincial and municipal governments are taking significant initiatives.