Legislative Alert: Support SB 224 – Regulation of Smoking in Public Places

Support SB 224 – Regulation

of Smoking in Public Places

Overview

SB 224 will be considered by the Senate Environment and Natural Resources Committee on Monday, February 7, at 2:30 p.m. ET.

SB 224 (Gruters) would give cities and counties the ability to provide smoke-free zones in public parks or on public beaches. Current law prohibits local governments from setting up reasonable smoke-free zones so our residents and visitors can enjoy public parks, playgrounds, recreation fields and beaches without exposure to unhealthy second-hand smoke.

Talking Points/Message to Legislators

Cigarette butts are one of the most littered items found on Florida’s beaches. Please give cities the tools to provide smoke-free zones in public places and vote YES on SB 224.

Cities strive to provide healthy and clean environments for their residents and visitors to live, work and play – a healthy community equals a vibrant community
Providing smoke-free zones in public parks and beaches is one way to keep our cities beautiful by eliminating discarded cigarette butts and other smoking-related trash
Smoke-free zones also help protect residents and visitors from unhealthy and unwanted second-hand smoke, leading to more enjoyable visits to our parks and beaches.

Be sure to include any local examples or stories on how this impacts your city!

Next Steps

Please contact members of the Senate Environment and Natural Resources Committee (click here for Committee contact info) and urge them to vote YES on SB 224.

Keep Us Informed

Please email Allison Payne and let us know what communications you have with legislators on this issue.

Thank you for your advocacy efforts!