Proposed ban on smoking in cars with kids faces final Assembly vote

Publication Date: 2007-09-06

• Author:California Political Desk
• Publication:California Chronicle, CA

A proposed ban on smoking in cars with children by state Sen. Jenny Oropeza, D-Long Beach, is expected to face its final vote in the Assembly Friday.

If approved, Senate Bill 7 would return to the Senate for concurrence, which could occur as soon as Friday or early next week. Barring additional amendments, the measure could then go to the governor's desk.

Health experts have testified that recent scientific studies, including a 2006 report by the Harvard School of Public Health, concluded second-hand smoke in a car can be up to 10 times more dangerous than in a home.

If signed into law, SB 7 would impose a $100 fine on drivers and passengers cited for smoking in a car with another person aged 17 or younger. The measure has been endorsed by several newspapers statewide.