As a group of high schoolers we are constantly around kids and adults that smoke. We outlined a major issue in society that is more undervalued than it should be. Second hand smoking is a serious issue in society that needs to be addressed. When adults are constantly smoking in cars when minors present it leads to a lot of harmful side effects such as minors forming an addiction to drugs, minors having health issues, and their bodies are not being able to fully develop because of the harmful toxins. 

Why Secondhand Smoking in vehicles is an important topic:

It’s a serious health risk for everyone because vehicles have a small air volume.  Vehicles have a small area so when you smoke, it fills the air with carcinogens and carbon monoxide at a faster and more deadly rate. Studies have shown that using even one cigarette with the windows closed can generate carcinogens more than 100 times the recommended amount. This is more harmful than smoking in restaurants, homes, and even smoking bars. It significantly increases the amount of carbon monoxide which can do a lot of harm in even small quantities. So think of how much harm it will do when the windows are closed! The amount of carcinogen released when the windows are down is a serious threat to everyone of all ages and fitness levels. Even with the windows or vents open, the amount of carcinogens is still twice the recommended amount. This make its a serious health concern for minors and sensitive groups (like people with respiratory problems) Minors rights are being harmed. Minors don’t always have the power to get an adult to stop, therefore they’re facing deadly health effects while having no power to stop it. It’s an infringement on their rights.

We want to spread this idea throughout communities so it becomes a social norm the same seat belts were introduced.  

Our solution: Bill to ban adults using products that contain but not limited to nicotine, tobacco, marijuanna while minors are present in vehicles (this includes all types of vehicles- even public transportation). 

Currently we are hoping to pass this as an ordinance in the cities of Lee's Summit, Kansas City, Independence, Oak Park, Platte County, Blue Springs. After that we are hoping to pursue this legislation at the state level to make this ban statewide in both Missouri and Kansas.

Many people have been asking why it’s so important. This is an issue most people don’t know much about but it’s a very common thing in our society. Children with parents who smoke might not have the power to speak up and this can lead to devastating health consequences because of how dangerous secondhand smoke is in vehicles. 

If you have any questions or concerns about the bill (or any arguments) you can reach out to varipatel0105@gmail.com!