Lawmakers will hear arguments Tuesday on a bill that would ban smoking in a car when a minor is present.
The legislation would make it illegal to smoke tobacco products in a vehicle with a passenger under the age of 18.
State Senator David Watters is the bill’s prime sponsor.
“The state has already expressed through seatbelts and other laws the desire to protect children when they are in a motor vehicle,” he said. “I see this as an extension of that kind of protection. This kind of middle ground between parental rights and the society’s concern for children’s health.”
Under the bill, those found smoking in a car with a minor would be guilty of a violation and subject to a $100 fine.
Maine passed a similar law in 2008, banning smoking in a car where children under 16 are present.
The bill is scheduled for a hearing this afternoon before the Senate Health and Human Services Committee.