Strong measures announced to protect the lungs of the people of Canada

CLA was pleased to see in Budget 2024, released Tuesday, April 16, reaffirmation of the Government's commitment to national pharmacare. The Association was also pleased to see a number of new measures that will protect future generations from lung disease and improve the air we breathe.

Tobacco, Vaping and Nicotine

• An increase in the tobacco tax by $4.00 per carton
• An increase in recently imposed e-cigarette taxes by 12%

The Canadian Lung Association applauds measures to reduce tobacco use and prevent future generations from nicotine addiction. Raising taxes on these products is one of the most important youth prevention tools we have at our disposal, and necessary given that Canada’s high rates of youth vaping.  

The government also included intentions to amend the Food and Drugs Act to restrict the marketing of nicotine pouches, in an attempt to close loopholes previously raised by the Canadian Lung Association and other concerned health organizations.

These measures are necessary if Canada wants to meet its goal of less than 5% tobacco use by 2035. It is reassuring to see the government reiterate its commitment to limiting the tobacco industry’s ability to entice a new generation to a lifelong dependence on nicotine products.

Air Quality

• Funding for wildfire fighting capacity and training

2023 was by far the worse year for wildfires in Canada. This much-needed funding is a promising start, but more must be done to further prevent wildfires and raise awareness about the best way that the people of Canada can protect their lungs from wildfire smoke.

• An additional $607.9 million in incentives for the Zero-Emission Vehicles program

Reiterating the Government’s commitment to reducing traffic-related air pollution, these incentives will encourage the transition among passenger vehicles. We hope to see similar incentivization in support of electric medium- and heavy-duty vehicles, thus further reducing exposure to harmful diesel exhaust.

• $800 million over five years for the Canada Greener Homes Affordability Program to support energy retrofits

CLA has long called for radon testing and mitigation to be included as part of the Greener Homes Program.  Ensuring that homes are efficient and well ventilated will help to reduce exposure to radon gas, the second-leading cause of lung cancer in this country.