Rhode Island lawmakers to review proposal that would extend state's public smoking ban to outdoor areas that include parks, beaches, playgrounds, pedestrian malls

Michelle Rivera

PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island , February 15, 2012 (Associated Press) – Rhode Island could soon make its public beaches and parks smoke-free.

State lawmakers are scheduled to review a proposal Wednesday that would extend the state's public smoking ban to outdoor recreation areas including public parks, beaches, playgrounds and pedestrian malls.

The bill's author, Rep. Richard Morrison, 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.

A vote on the measure has not been scheduled.

© 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.