Gov Pat Quinn's decision to ban novelty, toy lighters draws praise from Chicago-area lawmaker, moms

(Chicago, IL) – July 26, 2010. Governor Pat Quinn recently signed a package of fire safety bills into law, including a ban the sale of novelty and toy lighters, a move that is drawing praise from locals.

“These important new laws will improve public safety in Illinois," said Quinn.

The legislation, House Bill 5139, sponsored by State Rep. Donald Moffitt (R-Galesburg) and State Senator Michael Noland (D-Elgin) bans the sale and distribution of novelty and toy lighters in Illinois, imposing a fine of up to $500 for a violation.

Chicago state representatives Marlow Colvin and Mary Flowers also sponsored the bill.

According to the Illinois Fire Inspector’s Association, more than 300 people are hurt or killed in the United States each year as a result novelty lighters.

And the Illinois Fire Services Association says hundreds of the novelty lighters that resemble toys are sold at stores across America and that these lighters do not meet existing child-resistant cigarette lighter safety standards.

Quinn’s action is being applauded by an Illinois House lawmaker and a Chicago-area mother.

House Deputy Majority Leader Lou Lang (D-Skokie), who also represents the north side of Chicago, said, “I supported this legislation because it is important to keep tempting, dangerous items, like toy lighters, that could cause a tragedy, away from small children, and I happy the Governor signed the measure.”

Chicago-area resident Linda Walker, 41, a mother of two-school age children, said, “A child's curiosity is aroused by any cartoon-like object and they will eventually figure out how to light it, easily injuring himself or others. I support Governor Quinn in banning these dangerous items.”

Dianna Grace, 31, a mother of two-toddlers who lives in Chicago's Albany Park neighborhood, said she liked Quinn's move, but says more needs to be done.

"I am glad to see less lighters on the market, but I think it is almost impossible to make a lighter that does not appeal to children, unless they are all brown and black," said Grace. "I think our concern needs to be more in fire safety and fire education with the children in schools."

The new law is effective immediately.