Overview

• The West Virginia state Senate passed a bill banning smoking or possessing lit tobacco products in vehicles with individuals under 16 present.
• The proposed legislation, which passed with a 25-8 vote, would make such actions a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $25, but only as a secondary offense.
• Senate Majority Leader Tom Takubo, inspired by a patient affected by secondhand smoke, has championed the bill, marking a continued effort since 2017.
• Critics, including Sen. Mike Azinger, argue the bill infringes on parents' rights, labeling the legislation as an overreach by the state.
• West Virginia, with the highest adult cigarette usage in the nation, could join 11 other states that have already banned smoking in cars with children.