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Connecticut Lawmaker Calls For Ban On Smoking In Cars With Kids

HARTFORD, Conn. (CBSNewYork) -- It is illegal to text or talk on a cell phone and drive in Connecticut, and now if one state lawmaker has his way, there will also be restrictions on smoking and driving.

A proposed bill would make it illegal for people to smoke and drive with children under the age of 7 in the back seat.

State Rep. Henry Genga (D-Hartford) said overwhelming medical research favors the ban. Many Connecticut parents agree.

But civil rights attorneys question the idea.

"We all know how injurious it is for children, and I completely agree with that," one attorney said. "When they're trying to prohibit conduct in private spaces like your home or car, inform us and let us make decision."

Several states have a similar ban in effect, including Arkansas, Maine, California and Louisiana.

In 2011, New York State Assemblyman David Weprin (D-Queens) called for a ban on smoking in cars with children under the age of 14, but no state law on the subject has been approved in New York.

Smoking is banned in cars carrying passengers under the age of 18 in Rockland County.

Would you support a ban on smoking in cars with kids? Please leave your comments below...

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