EAST HARTFORD, Conn. -- Dozens of children visited the Capitol on Thursday to urge lawmakers to protect the youth from secondhand smoke while in cars.

Channel 3 Eyewitness News reporter Susan Raff reported that sixth graders from East Hartford gathered at the Capitol building to voice their opinions on being subject to secondhand smoke while riding in cars. Raff reported that the students at the state's Capitol considered smoking a bad activity.

Sixth-grade student Justin Kvadas told Eyewitness News that he feels too often, children are not consulted on important issues. Justin is not alone in his beliefs.

"My whole family smokes and when I go to school, kids [can] smell my clothes," said Natalya Adams, of East Hartford. She said she has asked her mother not to smoke when they are in the car together. However, Natalya said that her mother chooses to smoke in the car, even though she has asthma.

Rep. Henry Genga, D-East Hartford, said the proposal is aimed at benefiting young children in the state. "The law would protect children under the age of seven from secondhand smoke," said Genga.

Raff reported that one Connecticut lawmaker asked the students if they have parents who smoke in the car and many raised their hands.