Governor Cuomo Signs Bill to Protect Youth from Harmful Effects of Cigarettes By Prohibiting Smoking Near After-School Programs
Governor Cuomo signed legislation to protect children across New York State from exposure to second-hand smoke. The bill prohibits individuals from smoking near schools while after-school programs are in operation.
“This commonsense measure will help protect children from the dangerous
effects of second-hand smoke and complements ongoing efforts that have
resulted in smoking in New York hitting an all-time low," Governor
Cuomo said. “I thank the sponsors for their efforts to make this
a stronger and healthier New York."
This bill (S.993-A/A.5917-A) expands the ban on smoking within 100 feet
of the entrances, exits or outdoor areas of public and private schools
to prohibit smoking during after-school programs. The ban would be in
effect only during those hours in which the after-school programs are
in session. Residences or residential property within the 100 foot perimeter
would be excluded from the new law's smoking ban. In addition, the
new law requires such programs to post signs specifying the times at which
smoking is prohibited.
Senator Gustavo Rivera said, “I commend Governor Cuomo for signing
into law this bill to ensure that children in our communities are not
subjected to the dangers of second hand smoking when entering or exiting
their after school programs. After school programs should be safe learning
spaces and Assemblymember Pichardo and I will continue to work hard to
safeguard our community’s public health.”
Assemlymember Victor Pichardo said, “I am elated at the news of
this bill’s passage. It is critical that we do everything we can
to protect the health of our children, and I want to thank the Governor
for signing this important legislation into law. With the help of Speaker
Carl Heastie, Senator Gustavo Rivera and my colleagues, our children will
no longer be exposed to the harmful and dangerous effects of secondhand
smoke while participating in after-school activities that enrich their
lives.”