The southeastern Massachusetts town joins several other municipalities in the state that have implemented anti-tobacco regulations targeting young people.

Under the Attleboro Youth Possession of Tobacco regulation, police are allowed to confiscate cigarettes, chewing tobacco or cigars, fine children $25, and notify parents. Second-time offenders face a $50 fine, while third and subsequent offenses come with $100 fines and possible disciplinary action under the Attleboro School Administration's no-smoking policy. In addition to the police, the law allows city health agents or school administrators to write tickets.

Elaine LaRoche, director of the Attleboro Tobacco Control Program, said the ordinance is aimed at "breaking the cycle of addiction" by stopping cigarette smoking at as young an age as possible.

"We have a major problem here, and this is one enforcement tool," she said.

COMMENTS ON THIS ARTICLE:

Your Turn! Post a public comment (read guidelines):

Name:
Comment: (limit 200 words)
Enter this word (help):	Change

GUIDELINES: 
To keep this feature useful for everyone, please:

1. Keep it clean, courteous, focused, and on-topic. Comments are meant for thoughtful discussion of the article published above.
   
   
2. Do not post personal requests for help or general promotions for your organization (Get help).
   
   
3. Proof your comments carefully, use good spelling and punctuation, and don't use ALL CAPS. Comments are published immediately and cannot be edited.

Deceptive, slanderous and commercially-motivated posts are prohibited. We reserve the right to remove comments not conforming to these guidelines. (Report a comment).

Have questions or feedback? Contact us.