Florida Senator Joe Gruters filed the bill, SB 670 to authorize counties in Florida to further restrict smoking within the boundaries of certain public beaches and public parks.
Right now it’s against the law for local governments to ban smoking in public parks or on their beaches. SB 670 would ban smoking in state parks and allows counties to regulate smoking on public beaches and in public parks.
According to Surfrider Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world’s ocean, waves and beachesÂ
“Cigarette butts are the #1 item we collect at most beach cleanups in Florida, let’s get this toxic, plastic trash off our beaches and promote healthy clean air and water on Florida’s beaches.”
This is the second consecutive year lawmakers will consider making it illegal to smoke in public spaces. What differs this time is that this bill also includes vaping.