NYC Smokers Banned!

Smokers are banned in NYC! A new bill put into effect by the Mayor last Tuesday could cost you up to $50 if caught smoking. This of course is for regular cigarettes although I am still anxious how the smokeless cigarettes are handled.

Read the report: ==================

A sweeping bill instituting a smoking ban in NYC was signed into law by Mayor Michael Bloomberg last Tuesday. It is a major blow for smokers' rights in the Big Apple.

New York City smokers are banned from smoking in public places such as parks, beaches, pedestrian plazas, and boardwalks. The official smoking ban will go into effect on May 23, and the public will be expected to enforce the fine. If you are caught smoking illegally in public places, you could be fined $50.

It seems a little strange that NYC is leaving this up to the public. The city does not expect people to get into arguments over it. They are expecting citizens to report illegal smoking in public places. Basically, if a person does not stop when you request, then you can call 311 to report it, or you can notify a Parks Department employee or a Park Enforcement officer.

In a statement, Mayor Bloomberg said, “Creating smoke-free parks and beaches makes sense for many reasons. First and foremost, it will reduce the number of people exposed to second-hand smoke. There are many harmful effects of second-hand smoke. Second-hand smoke can increase upper respiratory infections, cause ear infections, and worsen asthma.”

While there are those who continue to deny that second-hand smoke harms, it seems the evidence that it does is overwhelming. While it is a blow to smokers, this new public smoking ban is a great step forward for the health of the citizens of NYC.

What do you think about it? Will this new law be effective at curbing smoking in public?

Read the rest of the report here

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This will be interesting to see how New York city will handle the electronic cigarette. While it's smokeless, I can already see some funny person playing games with the law.

Smoke your electronic cigarette... then once a cop holds you up. Show him that it's not a real cigarette. LOl!!!!

Will love to hear your thoughts on this...

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