Newark Bans Smoking In City Parks, Rec Facilities
NEWARK, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Smokers are going to find fewer places where they can light up in New Jersey's largest city.
Newark Mayor Ras Baraka on Thursday signed an ordinance into law that bans smoking in city parks and recreation facilities, or within 50 feet of municipal building entrances, exits, windows and ventilators. First-time violators face fines of $250.
The ordinance also includes electronic cigarettes and hookah pipes.
Newark Bans Smoking In City Parks, Rec Facilities
Newark first prohibited smoking in City Hall and other public buildings in 1991.
At Kasberger Field in the city's North Ward, parkgoers welcomed the smoking ban, WCBS 880's Levon Putney reported.
Thirteen-year-old Brian Rodriguez said he would sometimes breathe in cigarette smoking while playing soccer. Joseph Terrones, also 13, said he would sometimes step on cigarette butts and have to pull them from his cleats.
Evette Toledo, a volunteer coach for the Just One Neighborhood Soccer League, said she can now point out the no-smoking sign to anyone lighting up.
"Here's proof you can't smoke in a public space," she said with a laugh. "Put it out, and take the butt with you."
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