This act already has gaping great holes in it. When the bill goes to committee hearings, both industry spokespeople and antismoking groups will butt heads over its provisions. However, the government has taken steps to ensure it can control tobacco products without having to introduce new legislation. A government could gradually reduce the concentration of nicotine in cigarettes, for instance, and even eliminate addiction over time. Or it could increase the pH level of smoke, making it more obnoxious and therefore discouraging adolescent smokers.
Most observers expect the legislation to become law before the next election.
The Reform Party has pledged to fast-track the bill through the house. It's a question of public health. How the Bloc Qu b cois will approach the bill is less clear, although no party wants to appear to support smoking. Both Hill and Taylor agree that Dingwall seems deeply committed to controlling tobacco sales and is anxious to move quickly. For physicians, that's the good news.