New York mayor bans smoking in parks, beaches

New York: the city that never smokes.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg signed a law Tuesday banning smoking in parks, beaches and busy gathering places like Times Square, the health department said.

The law, approved by the City Council at the start of February, will be backed up with $50 fines, the department said.

It will take effect in 90 days, ending smoking in parks, pedestrian zones and 14 miles (23 kilometers) of beaches. Smoking is already forbidden in office buildings, bars and restaurants.

Health Commissioner Thomas Farley said the rules would make those public spots "healthier places than ever. I encourage those still smoking to take this opportunity to quit smoking today."

Officials estimate there are 950,000 adult smokers and another 18,000 teenagers lighting up in New York City, which has a population of 8.4 million.

"Smoking in parks and beaches not only harms people trying to enjoy these recreational facilities, it also causes a litter problem that harms the beauty of our parks," Mayor Michael Bloomberg said.

"Cigarette litter is difficult and expensive to clean up and is a hazard to children, pets, and the environment. Cigarette-related litter accounts for 75 percent of all litter on beaches and 33 percent of all litter in parks."

(c) 2011 AFP