House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda

NEW!

Subscribe to receive notifications of new Co-Sponsorship Memos circulated

By Member | By Date | Keyword Search

House of Representatives
Session of 2021 - 2022 Regular Session

MEMORANDUM

Posted:	November 18, 2021 02:09 PM
From:	Representative Angel Cruz
To:	All House members
Subject:	Protecting Children from Secondhand Smoke in Vehicles

The concentrations of secondhand smoke in vehicles where smoking is occurring can reach dangerously high levels, making the confined space of a car an extremely hazardous place for passengers. Any time a person breathes in secondhand smoke, they are exposed to over seven thousand chemicals, many of which are dangerous and known to cause cancer. Unsurprisingly, being exposed to secondhand smoke is especially harmful to children whose lungs are still developing. As little as 10 seconds of exposure to this smoke can stimulate asthmatic symptoms and lead to a host of other health issues – opening the car window is not enough to clear the air of these harmful toxins. My legislation seeks to preserve the long-term health of children in this Commonwealth. Smoking in a vehicle occupied by a child under the age of 18 will be a summary offense and carry a monetary penalty if convicted of another violation under the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code.  Please join me in protecting our children and the air they breathe by co-sponsoring this important legislation.

---