The Australian Medical Association was in Canberra on Friday pushing for parliament to pass laws to crack down on vaping, expected to be voted on in June.

It’s not been smooth sailing for Labor’s proposed ban on importation and penalties for commercial possession of vapes.

The Nationals want vapes regulated like cigarettes, with no prescription needed, and the same rules on plain packaging and excise taxes.

The Liberals at times allow the junior Coalition partner to set the course, and Peter Dutton has grumbled about prohibition. But the party also has its strident critics of vapes, such as the shadow education minister, Sarah Henderson, who describes them as a “scourge” in schools.

The crossbench and Greens are usually the safest path through the Senate. In May the Greens health spokesperson, Jordon Steele-John, agreed with an inquiry report this month that called for the bill to be passed but in additional comments warned the Greens do not “support the prohibition of vapes for adults”.

Instead, the party “will work towards a carefully regulated scheme that focuses on public health outcomes, reducing harm and minimising the use of vaping products”.

That is likely to include amendments to ensure individuals will not be criminalised for........

© The Guardian