By Madina Toure
State Sen. Toby Stavisky (D-Flushing) praised a new law that bans smoking near after-school programs and educational institutions.
The bill, passed unanimously by the state Senate in June, was signed into law Aug. 14 by Gov. Andrew Cuomo. The legislation prohibits smoking within 100 feet of after-school programs, schools and their entrances.
“Smoking is already banned in restaurants and bars, workplaces, schools and playgrounds, so it is only logical that it be banned near after-school programs,” Stavisky said in a statement. “This is especially necessary today as we live in a time when many parents work full time and rely on after-school programs to provide a safe atmosphere for their children. This law gives them the peace of mind they deserve.”
In 2003, smoking was banned in all workplaces in New York when the Clean Indoor Air Act was passed.
Since then, there have been no restrictions on smoking near after-school programs or entrances to school buildings where children enter and exit, Stavisky said.
Reach reporter Madina Toure by e-mail at mtour
