NJ Beaches Smoking Ban Update

In May, A893, a bill that would prohibit smoking on all public beaches, parks and outdoor sites statewide was passed by both houses of the New Jersey Legislature with bipartisan support as well as with the backing of numerous environmental and public health organizations.

However, on Friday, July 15, Governor Christie issued a conditional veto based on his belief that the State should not impose on how local communities govern their public spaces. This veto is similar to one Christie has issued on bills in the past. This time, however, the Governor offered to renegotiate, offering to sign a bill that would limit the ban to only state-owned property. The legislature may either accept the compromise bill, work to gather a majority of votes required to override the Governor’s veto, or reject the compromise and let the Governor’s veto stand, effectively killing the smoking ban legislation. Stay tuned to COA’s social media for updates.