Bill to Increase Fine for Selling Tobacco to a Minor Advances to House

A bill to increase the penalty for those who sell tobacco to minors has advanced to the state House.

Sponsor, state Senator Steve Bieda, says the measure would increase the fine from $50 to $100, and up to $500 for repeat offenders.

The Warren Democrat says if you look at the price for a carton of cigarettes, a $50 fine for selling to minors seems like a slap on the wrist.

He says his legislation brings the penalty up to date with inflation.

Bieda says he hopes the penalty hike will not only serve as a deterrent but also help raise awareness about the problem of youth smoking.

The bill was passed by the full Senate.