Politics & Government

Babylon Town Enacts Outdoor Smoking Ban

New law comes on heels of several other smoking bans; applies to Town recreational facilities.

Smokers in the Town of now have even fewer places to light up under a new outdoor smoking ban adopted by the Town Board on Tuesday.

The , which was approved unanimously after a public hearing in which no one spoke, prohibits smoking at Town parks, recreation areas, playgrounds, pools and beaches.

"This is an issue that constituents have asked us about in the past," Town spokesman Tim Ruggeri said.

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"There are obvious health and safety issues associated with the exposure to secondhand smoke, and the Town wants to ensure all residents can enjoy our beautiful parks and beaches without endangering their health."

Those who violate the ban - which also includes areas within 50 feet of Town buildings that are open to the public - face a fine of up to $250.

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The Suffolk County Legislature voted to ban smoking at county parks and beaches last month, and lighting up was on Long Island Rail Road platforms at the end of 2011.

Babylon residents will be allowed to smoke at designated smoking sections that will be set up at Town facilities, Ruggeri said.

Besides the health issues the bill passed on July 17 cited the "odor from smoking tobacco products and litter caused by the improper disposal of cigarette butts in public areas."

"People enjoying our recreation facilities often complain about the number of cigarette butts left in the area," Ruggeri said. "It creates unsanitary conditions, and they are very difficult to clean up."


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