SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - The California Senate has voted to ban smoking within 250 feet of youth sporting events.
The bill approved Thursday was proposed by 8th grade students at an Elk Grove school.
Democratic Sen. Richard Pan of Sacramento says his bill would set the right example for young people playing sports. It would allow a fine for anyone using tobacco products or electronic cigarettes while children are present at practices, games or other activities related to youth sports.
Republican Sen. Patricia Bates of Laguna Niguel says she opposed the legislation because it could inadvertently prohibit smoking at homes located close to youth sports fields.
The Senate's 32-5 vote sends the measure to the Assembly.