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Sound Off: Do You Agree With Smoking Ban on LIRR Platforms?

New law bans smokers from lighting up on train platforms.

A new state law banning smoking on Long Island Rail Road platforms went into effect on Sunday.  

For now, violators will only face a warning from authorities, but down the road, those who light up on the platform could be slapped with a $50 fine and up to 30 days in jail, according to reports

Smoking was already prohibited on trains and indoor areas at LIRR stations, but the new law extends the ban to outdoor areas, including platforms, ticketing and boarding areas, officials said. 

"It is important that commuters are not unwillingly subject to the dangers of second-hand smoke while waiting on train platforms," Gov. Andrew Cuomo said in a statement when he signed the bill into law in August.  

Opponents of the law say there's no evidence that exposure to cigarette smoke outdoors causes any harm. Some smokers on rails have already turned their noses up to the new law.  

“They’re already hiking up our prices," Devin Meehan, 25, told the New York Post. "I’m still going to smoke.”

What's your take? Are you in favor of the new law? Vote in the poll below and share your thoughts in the comments. 

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Mark Fauci May 17, 2013 at 08:46 am
Don't know what the Town ordnance is, but if you live within the Village of Patchogue, I believeRead More there is a "15 minute rule" in the code. Basically, if the dog is barking for more than 15 continuous minutes, it's a violation subject to a fine. Call public safety at 475-1225. Keep in mind it's probably not their first priority (unless the dog has a bad attitude, and is carrying a weapon), but they will be responsive, eventually.
Michael Sorrentino (Editor) May 13, 2013 at 12:38 pm
Hi Lucy, Thanks for posting this. If you take photos at this, email them to patchogue@patch.com andRead More we'll post it to News along with info on how people can donate if they could not make this event. Thanks.