
A proposed bill in South Carolina would make it illegal to smoke in a vehicle with children under the age of 12 present.
COLUMBIA, S.C. โ A South Carolina lawmaker introduced a bill this week that would make it illegal to smoke in a car with children present.ย
Sen. Darrell Jackson, who represents Richland County, announced legislation he says is aimed at protecting kids from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke. The proposed bill would ban smoking in vehicles when a child under 12 is inside the car.ย
“No child should be forced to breathe toxic secondhand smoke, especially in the confined space of a vehicle,” Jackson said. โThis bill is a common-sense measure to protect our childrenโs health, just as we already do with car seat and seatbelt laws.โ
This isn’t the first time Jackson’s pushed this kind of legislation. He proposed similar measures in 2007 and 2011. The first bill passed the South Carolina Senate but failed to advance in the House, according to Jackson, who said a dozen states have passed these laws recently.
The bill calls for a fine no greater than $100 for adults who violate the law.ย
โAs a father and grandfather, I believe we have a duty to create a healthier future for the next generation,โ Jackson said. “This legislation is not about punishing smokers; it’s about ensuring our kids can grow up in an environment free from unnecessary health risks.”