(AP) — A proposal to ban tobacco use on all California State University and community college campuses is gaining traction in the Statehouse.
The California Assembly passed AB1594 with no votes to spare on Monday, sending the proposal to the state Senate.
The bill by Assemblyman Kevin McCarty would prohibit chewing, dipping, smoking or vaping natural or synthetic tobacco products on 136 California campuses.
About 2.5 million students attend those schools, which have about 100,000 staff and faculty.
Supporters aim to decrease the harmful effects of nicotine and secondhand smoke, but others question whether it's necessary.
The Sacramento Democrat's proposal would allow school officials and police to fine campus smokers up to $100.
The vote comes as Democratic Gov. Jerry Brown considers six other bills to restrict tobacco use in various ways.
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