Lawmakers to mull smoking ban at RI beaches, parks

Publication Date: 2012-01-20

• Publication:Boston.com

Public parks and beaches could join the list of places in Rhode Island where smoking is prohibited under a bill to be considered by state lawmakers.

Rep. Richard Morrison says he has written legislation to ban smoking in public parks, pedestrian malls and public beaches. Morrison, a Democrat, says it makes no sense to allow smoking in areas set aside for public recreation.

Morrison says his idea would also cut down on the number of discarded cigarette butts littering public areas.

The state already bans cigarettes in bars, restaurants, schools and most workplaces.

Morrison's legislation awaits a review by the House health committee.