Story:
New York City (09/15/2010) - In 2003, it was bars and nightclubs. In 2010, if Mayor Michael Bloomberg gets his way, the no smoking rule will mean that people can't smoke on city beaches, city parks and pedestrian plazas. Needless to say, it wasn't hard to find New Yorkers who think its a bad idea.
"We’re outside and people are entitled to smoke," said one New Yorker.
"If I want to smoke a cigarette, then that’s my business, and I should be allowed to smoke in a public place," said another.
"Outside, there’s so much fresh air, it just kind of washes away the smell," said a third.
Officials say fresh air doesn’t exactly blow away the toxins, and point to research that shows secondhand smoke is just as hazardous outside as it is inside. What’s more, they say, cigarette butts account for three quarters of beach litter. City officials also say research shows two thirds of New Yorkers support the ban.
“Passing it, we think, would help ensure that when New Yorkers and visitors to our city go to the parks and beaches for fresh air, there will actually be fresh air for them to breathe," said Mayor Michael Bloomberg.
"There is no safe level of exposure to second hand smoke -- not inside, not outside, not anywhere," said Donald Distasio of the American Cancer Society of New York and New Jersey.
Violators could be slapped with an estimated $50 summons. The rule will be introduced to the City Council on Thurs.
"We’re outside and people are entitled to smoke," said one New Yorker.
"If I want to smoke a cigarette, then that’s my business, and I should be allowed to smoke in a public place," said another.
"Outside, there’s so much fresh air, it just kind of washes away the smell," said a third.
Officials say fresh air doesn’t exactly blow away the toxins, and point to research that shows secondhand smoke is just as hazardous outside as it is inside. What’s more, they say, cigarette butts account for three quarters of beach litter. City officials also say research shows two thirds of New Yorkers support the ban.
“Passing it, we think, would help ensure that when New Yorkers and visitors to our city go to the parks and beaches for fresh air, there will actually be fresh air for them to breathe," said Mayor Michael Bloomberg.
"There is no safe level of exposure to second hand smoke -- not inside, not outside, not anywhere," said Donald Distasio of the American Cancer Society of New York and New Jersey.
Violators could be slapped with an estimated $50 summons. The rule will be introduced to the City Council on Thurs.
Questions:
1) Where did this story take place?
2)When did this story take place?
3) Who wants the no smoking rule to cover the parks and beaches?
4) Why do some people think it is a bad idea?
5) Why do some people think it is a good idea?
6) What do you think? Should people be allowed to smoke in the parks or not? Why or why not?
Info from NY1
No comments:
Post a Comment