Leduc bans smoking in vehicles with minors

A new Leduc bylaw came into affect on Saturday, that is one of a kind in an Alberta city.

The bylaw, which was passed in December, bans people from smoking in a vehicle while a child is present. Smokers will be fined $100 for the first offence and $200 for every offence after.

Leduc Alderman Dominic Mishio believes that the bylaw will help educate people about the dangers of smoking.

"The intent is really to bring greater education that this is a good courtesy thing to do. It's not to nab everyone who might be in violation to this - but educate them that this isn't necessarily the best thing to be doing. and try to bring attention to that."

Sarah Hawkins from the Canadian Cancer Society said the new bylaw will help the society gain exposure.

"we definitely advocate for the policy because we know it's necessary in protecting vulnerable children, but education is often enough in getting people to change attitudes"

Leduc is the first Alberta City to pass the law. They follow the town of Okotoks, which passed a similar law three years ago. Leduc's mayor hopes the entire province will soon follow their lead.