The Georgia Senate recently voted to pass a bill that will regulate vaping in public spaces. Senate Bill 47 was passed with a 51-3 vote, and it will essentially amend the Smoke-Free Air Act of 2005 to include vaping as well. Under this law, vaping indoors in many public places will be prohibited, much like smoking. Violations of the law will result in a misdemeanor charge, with fines ranging from $100 to $500.

The bill is a direct response to an alleged vaping crisis that has been sweeping the nation. Georgia’s Department of Public Health has reported 42 cases of vaping-related illness, including 6 deaths. Despite the growing numbers, vaping has yet to be federally regulated. This bill has been explained as an attempt to protect the public from the potential harm of vaping and to keep public spaces safe.

Republican State Sen. Chuck Hufstetler, who sponsored the bill, has stated that he is trying to keep changes to existing law as simple as possible. He is hoping that this bill will help bring awareness to the dangers of vaping and discourage people from engaging in the activity, and claims the proposal will help protect people from second-hand exposure to vaping.

The bill has received much support from members of the Senate and public health organizations alike. While the law still needs to be approved by the House of Representatives, it is expected to be passed with minimal changes.