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Canberra Today 14°/16° | Friday, March 29, 2024 | Digital Edition | Crossword & Sudoku

Smoking in car ban starts today

THE law that bans smoking in cars with children under the age of 16 starts today. If caught, people can face an on the spot fine of $250 or up to $5500 if proven in court.

“While it is an adult’s right to choose to smoke and expose themselves to all the associated and well-known health risks, this ban aims to protect children who could not otherwise protect themselves,” Chief Minister and Minister for Health Katy Gallagher said.

“The ‘Smoking in Cars with Children (Prohibition) Act 2011’, which comes into force today, protects that right. Exposure to tobacco smoke is harmful, especially to children and is associated with an increased risk of health conditions such as various cancers, ear infections, asthma and SIDS.

“Tobacco use is associated with 15,000 deaths every year and continues to be the foremost preventable cause of death in Australia. The ACT has one of the lowest smoking rates in Australia at 16.3 per cent but more could be done to reduce the burden tobacco places on the community.”

 

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