Bill > H2443

This bill aims to protect young children from secondhand smoke by prohibiting smoking in motor vehicles when a child is required to be in a child passenger restraint. Specifically, the legislation makes it illegal for any person to smoke in a motor vehicle with such a child present, with violators subject to a $100 fine. Law enforcement is tasked with enforcing this provision, but with important restrictions: officers cannot search a vehicle solely because of this violation, and during the first 90 days after the law takes effect, they must issue warnings instead of citations. The bill also clarifies that this violation cannot be used as evidence of contributory negligence in civil cases and will not be considered a moving violation for the purpose of determining motor vehicle insurance premiums. Drivers who receive a citation can contest it through established legal procedures, highlighting the bill's focus on child health and safety without unduly burdening motorists.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H2443