Oklahoma Bill Restricts Vaping in Vehicles with Minors

Oklahoma State Senator Brenda Stanley, R-Midwest City, has introduced Senate Bill 23, which seeks to ban the use of vapor products in vehicles when minors are present. The proposed legislation is part of a broader range of bills filed by Oklahoma lawmakers ahead of the January 16th deadline, covering various topics such as minimum wage increases and the legalization of sports betting.

Sen. Stanley, a former school teacher and principal, emphasizes the importance of protecting children from the potential harmful effects of secondhand vapor exposure. If passed, Senate Bill 23 would impose a fine of up to $100 on individuals caught using vapor products in a vehicle with a minor present. The revenue generated from these fines would be directed to the Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Revolving Fund.

“We have study after study that talks about the effects of cigarette smoke for anybody,” Stanley stated. “It is important to protect our children.” Drawing from her experience in education, Stanley noted that children would sometimes arrive at school “reeking of cigarette smoke,” which she believes is not healthy for anyone.

Addressing the Timeliness of the Measure

Sen. Stanley asserts that the measure is timely and does not aim to infringe upon individual rights. As the vaping industry continues to evolve and more research emerges on the potential health impacts of vapor products, lawmakers across the country are considering various regulations to mitigate risks, particularly for youth.

Read more: Oklahoma House Bill: Vaping Regulation Enforcement Shift

Other Notable Bills Filed by Oklahoma Legislators

In addition to Senate Bill 23, Oklahoma lawmakers have introduced a diverse array of bills covering a wide range of issues. Some notable proposals include:

Minimum wage increases
Tax exemptions for school and art supplies during the annual back-to-school sales tax holiday
Requiring judges’ party affiliations, appointing governors, and appointment dates to appear on retention ballots
Legalizing sports betting
Changing the makeup of the State Board of Education

As the legislative session commences on February 3rd, Oklahomans can anticipate further discussions and debates surrounding these bills, which aim to address various public health, economic, and social issues facing the state.

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Matthew Ma

Marketing at Ecigator

With over a decade of experience in the e-cigarette industry, Matthew Ma is a seasoned expert in both the manufacturing and usage aspects of vaping products. His extensive background has provided him with a deep understanding of the intricacies and evolving dynamics of e-cigarettes.