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Table of Contents

Cover Story

Cover Story - Spanish Version

Mini-Lesson

Comprehension Quiz

Teacher's Guide and Worksheets

Maine's No-Smoking Cars

Drivers in Maine must follow a new rule when they hit the road. A law took effect statewide on April 10 making it illegal to smoke in a car carrying a passenger younger than 16 years old.

Health experts say that harmful second-hand smoke is more concentrated in closed environments such as cars. "Especially at risk are our youngest citizens, who don't have the choice of whether or not to be exposed to dangerous secondhand smoke," says Maine Governor John Baldacci. "This bill is important because it will protect children's health."

Arkansas, California and Louisiana have passed similar laws. Supporters see them as an important step. Most antitobacco laws ban smoking only in public spaces.

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