HONOLULU (AP) — Only fire-safe cigarettes will be sold in Hawaii beginning next year under a new law passed by the Legislature.
Fire-safe cigarettes are less likely to start house fires by self-extinguishing if they’re left unattended.
Lawmakers say these cigarettes are rolled with a kind of paper that’s less likely to ignite homes and take lives. Between 700 and 900 people nationwide are killed in house fires started by cigarettes.
Several other fire measures were also approved by the state Legislature this year.
They increase fines against arsonists, prohibit throwing fireworks from car windows and modify fire codes.
The measure now goes to Gov. Linda Lingle, who is expected to sign it.
