Don't smoke in your car while kids are present!

Villa · Congressional Page Joined: 30 Dec 2007 Posts: 16

Car Smoking Ban One Of Several New Laws

Lighting up behind the wheel will become an expensive habit in California if there are kids in the car.

Starting Tuesday Jan. 1, 2008 motorists could be hit with fines of up to $100 for smoking in a vehicle containing a child.

The ban is among hundreds of changes in state law that take effect with the new year. Others include the second increase in the minimum wage in 12 months and measures to require more efficient lights, promote solar water heaters and ease the way for more homeless shelters.

The smoking ban is the latest attempt by the state to shield people from the health risks created by breathing secondhand smoke.

California already prohibits smoking in enclosed workplaces, including taverns and restaurants, and within 25 feet of a playground.

Two other states -- Arkansas and Louisiana -- have laws that bar smoking in vehicles containing children. The Arkansas statute applies to children under age 6 or 60 pounds. The Louisiana law covers children under age 13.

California's ban would prohibit smoking in a vehicle containing anyone under 18, but the traffic stop would have to be made for another offense, such as speeding, before a vehicle's occupant could be cited for smoking.