Gov. Brown Backs Ban On Smoking Near Youth Sports

SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) - Gov. Jerry Brown has signed legislation to ban smoking and vaping within 250 feet of youth sporting events in California.

Brown said Friday he's approving the legislation that was proposed by an 8th grade class at a Catholic school in Elk Grove near Sacramento.

SB977 would allow a fine for anyone using tobacco products or electronic cigarettes while children are present at practices, games or other activities related to youth sports.

Democratic Sen. Richard Pan of Sacramento says his bill would set the right example for young people playing sports.

The measure is the latest in a series of restrictions on smoking that lawmakers approved this year, such as raising the age to purchase tobacco and electronic cigarette from 18 to 21.

Copyright 2016 The Associated Press.