Columbia, South Carolina — A South Carolina lawmaker introduced a bill this week that would make it illegal to smoke in a car with children.
Sen. Darrell Jackson, who represents Richland County, has proposed legislation to protect children from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke. The proposed bill would prohibit smoking in vehicles containing children under the age of 12.
“No child should be forced to breathe toxic secondhand smoke, especially in the confined space of a vehicle,” Jackson told reporters. “This bill is a common-sense measure to protect our children’s health, just as we already do with car seat and seatbelt laws.”
Jackson has previously pushed for similar legislation. He proposed comparable measures in 2007 and 2011. According to Jackson, the first bill passed the South Carolina Senate but did not advance in the House, despite the fact that a dozen states had recently passed similar legislation.
Adults who violate the law will face a fine of no more than $100, according to the bill.
“As a father and grandfather, I believe we have a duty to create a healthier future for the next generation,” Jackson told reporters. “This legislation is not about punishing smokers; it’s about ensuring our kids can grow up in an environment free from unnecessary health risks.”
