You may have noticed tobacco product displays in your corner store are now hidden from the sight.
It’s a move by the provincial government to help kids and adults quit smoking.
But there’s been a question about tobacco accessories — like pipes, lighters and other smoking paraphernalia.
Ministry of Health Spokesperson Gillian MacDonald tells Bayshore Broadcasting News the act only prohibits promoting specific brands through the accessories.
For example — a lighter with a du Maurier label is not allowed to be displayed.
As far as fines go for stores not abiding by the Act, MacDonald says the Ministry of Health Promotion is encouraging progressive enforcement.
She says tobacco enforcement officers are being encouraged to educate retailers about the new laws rather than lay charges immediately.
MacDonald says a person who doesn’t follow the act is subject to an initial ticket of 250 dollars.
But fines under the Smoke Free Ontario Act can increase up to 150 thousand dollars.
