A bill that would crack down on smokers is gaining ground in the Florida Senate.
Soon, smokers could be breaking the law and facing fines if they decide to light up with kids in the car. Tuesday, a Senate committee passed a measure that would make it illegal to smoke in a car when a child under 13 years of age is present.
"It is kind of like child abuse to subject a child to second hand smoke," said Laura Price.
The new law would ban people from smoking with anyone under age 13 in the car. A ban has the support from people like Donna Lavery.
"It should be your choice to smoke and nobody else's and they're making that choice for their children," said Donna Lavery.
But other people like Jacksonville resident Scott think the new law would go too far.
"If the government wants to get involved, then that's wrong cause the government shouldn't be involved in people's personal lives," Scott said.
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Action News spoke with lawyer Matt Jackson about what the new law would mean for people's rights.
Lawyer Matt Jackson, with the law firm Brennan, Manna & Diamond, said, "As with most laws, there is an impact on your civil liberties. The problem here is once you step out your front door, the expectation of privacy goes down, especially if you're on a public roadway."
Jackson also said the law would be similar to driving without your license.
"It's not a situation where officers are going to be out seeking to pull people over for smoking in a car with a minor," said Lawyer Matt Jackson.
People caught breaking the law will be fined $30. With fees and court costs, that number could rise to over $100.
"There's a number of regulations out there that will restrict what you can do in your car and that's because it has an impact on those around you," Jackson said.
Seven other states, including Louisiana and Arkansas have a similar law. If the law is passed then it would go into effect on Oct. 1.
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