Smoking With Kids in Car Is a Crime, Says New Oregon Law

The Oregon Legislature has voted to make it a crime to smoke in a car with kids.

The House approved the bill in a 43-15 vote on Monday. It now goes to Gov. John Kitzhaber, and a spokeswoman says he intends to sign it, according to The Associated Press.

The bill would prohibit drivers from smoking in cars if a person under 18 is present.

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Supporters say the bill would protect children who are especially vulnerable to the harmful effects of second-hand smoke. Opponents agree that second-hand smoke is dangerous, but say that the state shouldn't regulate what drivers do in their own cars.

A police officer could enforce the ban only if the driver had been pulled over for separate traffic violation. A maximum fine for the first offense would be $250.

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