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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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CONTACT: Nicole
Reigelman |
State Rep. Jim Wansacz |
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Wansacz working to stamp out teen smoking
HARRISBURG, April 25 – State Rep. Jim Wansacz has introduced legislation that would tighten a loophole on minors possessing tobacco products.
Wansacz, D-Lackawanna/Luzerne/Susquehanna/Wyoming, said his proposal would implement a four-step penalty process for minors found in possession of tobacco on school grounds, public parks or any other location.
In 2002, the General Assembly passed a law (Act 112 of 2002) which provided penalties for minors who purchased tobacco, Wansacz said. However, many teens get cigarettes and other tobacco products from older friends or family members, and currently the possession of tobacco products only is prohibited on school grounds.
“Smoking is incredibly harmful and we need to do everything we can to prevent our youth from ever lighting up,” Wansacz said. “The longer they wait to have their first cigarette, the less likely they are to ever pick up the habit.”
Wansacz’s four-step plan includes escalating penalties for each offense. The breakdown is below:
- First offense: written warning
- Second offense: community service (not to exceed 75 hours)
- Third offense: completion of a Tobacco Use Prevention and Cessation Program approved by the state Department of Health
- Fourth offense and after: a fine of up to $100
Wansacz’s bill (H.B.1165) has been referred to the Judiciary Committee with bipartisan support.
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