Missouri House OKs Bill Requiring Fire-Safe Cigarettes

Cigarettes sold in Missouri would have to be self-extinguishing under a bill receiving first-round approval in the House.

The goal is to lower the chances of a fire breaking out if a smoker falls asleep with a lit cigarette. So-called fire-safe cigarettes have special paper and go out if burning tobacco reaches the treated section.

Proponents said the cigarettes would protect smokers and firefighters from accidental fires. The Coalition for Fire Safe Cigarettes says 38 states and Washington, D.C., have passed or adopted laws requiring the cigarettes.

The House bill requires another vote before going to the Senate. The measure provides for fines of up to $100 per pack on stores that sell the old type of cigarette, starting in 2011.