
West Virginia, known for having the highest rate of adult cigarette use in the nation, is on the verge of becoming the 12th state to prohibit smoking in vehicles when children are present. The bill, which recently received final legislative approval, passed the Republican-dominated House of Delegates with a 66-33 vote. It now awaits the decision of Republican Governor Jim Justice.
If signed into law, violators could face fines of up to $25, but enforcement would only occur if they are pulled over for another offense, with smoking in the presence of children not being the primary reason for the stop.