Anti-smoking measures have expanded in England and Wales to protect young people from the dangers of second-hand smoke.
The latest regulation: it’s now illegal to smoke in a car with kids inside.
The ban takes effect today, where lawbreakers will face fines if they’re caught lighting up with toddlers inside the car.
Since it’s a new law, fines aren’t expected to start flying out, but more of an “educational, advisory and non-confrontational approach” for at least the first three months of the ban, says the Police Chief’s Council.
While smoking advocates are scoffing at a law that’s ‘unenforceable’, health officials and anti-smoking groups are hailing the motion as the most important since a general ban on smoking in workplaces and enclosed public spaces was instilled in ’07.
“Today is truly a cause for celebration for all those who care about protecting the health of generations to come,” said Penny Woods, chief of the British Lung Foundation.
Anyone who smokes inside a car with children under 18 face a $75 fine. It does not apply to a convertible if the top is down and properly stowed — and use of electronic cigarettes is not affected by the legislation.
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