"New Zealand Considers Revising Anti-Smoking Laws and Establishing Māori Health Authority"
New Zealand's newly elected conservative government plans to repeal the country's pioneering smokefree bill, which aimed to cut down on smoking by limiting nicotine levels, reducing the number of retailers, and banning cigarette sales to those born after 2008. The bill was seen as a cause for celebration by the indigenous Māori and Pasifika populations, who have higher smoking rates. The government argues that the bill violates freedom of choice and fuels crime. Additionally, the government plans to abolish the Māori Health Authority, which oversees indigenous health policies and care delivery. Critics argue that these actions will lead to more tobacco-related deaths and exacerbate health inequities for indigenous communities. Protests have already begun, with Māori and Pasifika communities mobilizing to reverse the government's plans.