Proposal To Ban Tobacco Near Youth Sports
Sacramento, CA — A California Democratic Senator has introduced a bill that would ban tobacco products from being used with 250 ft. of a youth sporting event.
SB 977 would prohibit the use of cigarettes, chewing tobacco, e-cigarettes and other tobacco products near any sports practice, game or activity where athletes under the age of 18 are present.
Democratic Senator Richard Pan says the idea was brought to him by a class of 8th grade students in Sacramento, and they will be working to solicit support and lobby other lawmakers. Pan adds, “Youth sports are about promoting healthy habits like physical activity and athleticism, and positive behaviors such as sportsmanship and excellence. And there’s no place for tobacco around youth sports.”
Existing law prohibits the use of tobacco in the workplace and in and around public buildings. SB 977 will have its first policy committee hearing in April.
