BENEFITS OF TOBACCO-FREE SPACES
In outdoor recreational areas such as parks and beaches, tobacco litter and secondhand smoke pose significant hazards, particularly for children. Presently, over 500 municipalities in New York State have designated these areas as tobacco-free. This initiative protects park users from secondhand smoke, reduces tobacco litter, and fosters environments that promote tobacco-free living. It also reflects responsiveness to the preferences of the majority of New York State residents who advocate for tobacco-free parks, beaches, and other outdoor recreational spaces.
TOBACCO-FREE PLAYGROUNDS
Effective October 10, 2013, New York Public Health Law Article 13-E § 1399-o-1 bans smoking on all public playgrounds from sunrise to sunset when children under 12 are present. The law also mandates prominent signage to ensure compliance.
PUTTING A TOBACCO-FREE CAMPUS POLICY IN PLACE TAKES TIME.
Has your campus decided to adopt a tobacco-free policy? Download our below resources.
Steps to a Tobacco-Free Policy Adoption Checklist
TOBACCO FREE OUTDOORS CAMPAIGN
Tobacco litter, primarily cigarette butts made of plastic-like cellulose acetate fibers, poses serious risks to children, pets, and wildlife. These butts take decades to decompose and have been found in the stomachs of marine animals, causing ingestion of hazardous chemicals and blockages. They also carry tars and bacteria from smokers, posing health hazards, especially to young children who may inadvertently handle them.
Campaign objectives
This campaign aims to educate New Yorkers about the benefits of tobacco-free outdoor recreational areas, highlighting the environmental impact of tobacco litter and the dangers of secondhand smoke, especially on children when tobacco use is unrestricted.
OUTDOOR TOBACCO USE POLICIES
Businesses and cities are implementing outdoor smoking bans with strong scientific and legal support. Secondhand smoke, classified as a Class A Carcinogen by the EPA, contains over 4,000 substances, including more than 40 carcinogens and many irritants. The Surgeon General has affirmed that there is no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke, while U.S. Courts have ruled that smoking is not constitutionally protected.