Statement from Raj Sherman – One year anniversary of Bill 203 banning smoking in cars with children

Edmonton – A year ago today, Alberta Liberal Leader Raj Sherman achieved an historic milestone as the Assembly unanimously passed his Private Members’ Bill 203 Tobacco Reduction (Protection of Children in Vehicles) Amendment Act, which protects children from being exposed to second-hand smoke in vehicles. Unfortunately, the Redford government has failed to take the final step needed for this act to become law.

Sherman released the following statement to mark the occasion:

“All Albertans benefited when MLAs put aside their partisan differences to vote in favour of a common-sense bill to prevent unnecessary harm to our province’s children. This bill is a positive move forward in our campaign to reduce the rates of smoking-related respiratory distress and diseases.”  

“The Minister of Health delayed the date on which the bill was to be enacted, promising instead to include the ban in his overall Tobacco Reduction Strategy, but he has failed to do either. There is no reason to delay this bill any further. Our children shouldn’t suffer needlessly because of the PC government’s foot-dragging and political manoeuvring. It’s inexcusable.

“It’s well past time to stand up for the health of our children and proclaim this bill into law. Our children have waited long enough.

“Protection delayed is protection denied.”