Senator Wants Higher Fines For Selling Smokes To Kids

A bill is before the state House to increase the fine for selling tobacco products to minors. State Senator Steve Bieda is the sponsor and says he wanted to do something about the problem of youth smoking. The Macomb County Democrat looked at fines for selling tobacco to someone under 18.

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Bieda says his bill brings the penalty up to date with inflation. The measure would increase the fine from $50 to $100, and up to $500 for repeat offenders. Senator Bieda adds more importantly, he hopes his bill will raise awareness of the problem of youth smoking.

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The legislation was passed earlier by the state Senate and cleared a House committee this week.