California Could Ban Smokeless Tobacco In Pro Baseball

(AP) - California lawmakers are voting to ban a once-common practice in Major League Baseball, the use of chewing tobacco.

The state Senate on Monday approved a bill prohibiting the use or possession of smokeless tobacco products on the playing field during a professional baseball game or practice.

Republican Sen. John Moorlach of Costa Mesa says professional baseball already voluntarily bans the product.

Democratic Sen. Mark Leno of San Francisco says AB768 puts a good practice into California law.

The measure passed 24-14.

Senators also approved prohibiting the sale of vapor products to anyone under age 18, even if they don't contain nicotine.

Democratic Sen. Ed Hernandez of La Puente says vendors often target younger customers with candy-flavored vapors. The Senate passed AB216 on 35-2.

Both bills return to the Assembly.