Can’t Smoke In Cars With Kids: Law In Effect Wednesday

In a move we first told you about in June, smoking inside a vehicle where children are also riding is now illegal.

The legislation comes into effect Wednesday and protects those under the age of 16 from second-hand smoke.

A similar ban is already in place in Nova Scotia and B.C., and New Brunswick and P.E.I. are considering similar laws.

A 2007 report from the Ontario Medical Association stated smoke in a car can be up to 27 times more concentrated than in a smoker’s home.

In Ontario, drivers could face fines of up to $250. It follows other province-wide programs that have eliminated smoking in many pubic places, including bars and restaurants.

Here are some quick facts about the new law:

• Any person – driver or passenger – in the motor vehicle, who is smoking while someone else under the age of 16 is present, is committing an offence. The person holding lighted tobacco would be subject to a fine.
• Every person who fails to comply with the new law is guilty of an offence and subject to a set fine of $250.
• The law applies to both moving and stationary vehicles and applies to all motor vehicles, regardless of whether any window, sunroof, rooftop, door, or other feature of the vehicle is open.

For a detailed look at the effects of second-hand smoke on children, click here (.pdf).

Queen’s Park Passes Ban On Smoking In Cars With Kids