Governor Baldacci Signs Ban on Smoking in Cars with Children Present

AUGUSTA – Governor John E. Baldacci today signed LD 2012, “An Act To Protect Children in Vehicles from Secondhand Smoke.” The bill’s sponsor, Rep. Brian Duprey (R-Hampden), was at the ceremony, as well as numerous supporters of the legislation.

“Tobacco use costs too many lives and too much money,” Governor Baldacci said. “Especially at risk are our youngest citizens who don’t have the choice of whether or not to be exposed to dangerous secondhand smoke. That’s why I am proud that today we add another tool in our arsenal of protecting our most valuable resource – our kids.”

The legislation was modeled after the Bangor ordinance to ban smoking in cars with passengers younger than 18 years old. The Bangor ordinance took effect last year. Bangor pediatric dentist, Jonathan Shenkin, was instrumental in the Bangor ordinance and was at today’s bill signing as well.

The statewide law will prohibit smoking in vehicles with passengers younger than 16 years old.

“Put simply, this bill is important because it will protect children’s health in Maine,” the Governor said. “I am proud that Maine has been a leader in education and prevention on tobacco, and this legislation has brought us to the next level.”