Governor Hochul Signs Stavisky Legislation to Ban Smoking in Public Parks

ALBANY- Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation sponsored by Senator Toby Ann Stavisky (D- Queens) prohibiting smoking in all state-owned beaches, boardwalks, marinas, playgrounds, recreation centers, and group camps. The bill signed last week was sponsored in the Assembly by Jeffrey Dinowitz (Bronx).

“This law is important for a number of reasons. In addition to the obvious health risks posed by secondhand smoke, non-biodegradable filters in cigarette butts are a major environmental hazard and they are the leading item found during cleanup projects. Through this prohibition, parks and beaches will be kept cleaner and safer for those who enjoy them,” Senator Stavisky noted.

"New York's public parks are family friendly venues,” says Senator Toby Ann Stavisky. “No one, especially children, should be subjected to secondhand smoke while playing on a playground or enjoying the day at a public beach or camp site. Our parks also shouldn't be tainted by non-biodegradable cigarette butts scattered throughout their grounds. I am proud to sponsor this legislation to protect and improve our beautiful network of parks and I thank Governor Hochul for helping New Yorkers enjoy the beauty of our parks by signing it into law."

Smoking in the designated areas listed above will be punishable with a civil fine of $50.