Bill > HB368

This bill prohibits smoking tobacco products and e-cigarettes in motor vehicles when a passenger under 16 years of age is present, introducing a new section to New Hampshire's traffic laws (RSA 265). Specifically, the legislation establishes that any person smoking in a vehicle with a child under 16 will be subject to a $100 fine. Importantly, law enforcement can only issue this citation as a secondary action, meaning the ticket can only be given if the driver is already being detained for another traffic violation. The bill includes a 120-day implementation period after its passage, allowing time for public awareness and preparation. The primary intent appears to be protecting children from secondhand smoke exposure in enclosed vehicle spaces, recognizing the potential health risks to young passengers from tobacco and e-cigarette smoke.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://gc.nh.gov/bill_status/legacy/bs2016/bill_docket.aspx?lsr=0415&sy=2025&sortoption=&txtsessionyear=2025&txtbillnumber=HB368